What to Consider in Taking a Gap Year

by Adrianne Greth

The percentage of high school students in the United States who choose to take a Gap Year is still small.  Deciding whether a gap year between high school and college is the best option requires a great deal of reflection, research, and planning. Students engage in a gap year for a wide variety of reasons, but most are hoping to experience unique opportunities that lead to growth, exploration, and self-reliance.

To get started, determine your personal reasons for taking a gap year – what do you hope to gain or accomplish? Remember, there are no “right” or “wrong” answers here! One of the more common reasons is to gain real-world experience and further explore various academic interests or potential career paths. Whether through internships, volunteer work, or travel, practical exposure can help reconfirm your passions, or help spark new ones. With this clarity, students often return to college motivated with a clearer sense of purpose and a more established focus. For those seeking personal development and independence, gap year experiences can foster maturity and resilience. Students often focus on building skills such as time management, financial responsibility, and self-discipline– all of which can be valuable in a college setting. 

In addition to considering your personal goals and long-term aspirations, it’s also important to be realistic about your individual circumstances in partnership with your family. Financial implications can be significant; students must consider the costs of traveling, living expenses, and other related activities, and budget accordingly. Intentional and detailed planning is key to a successful gap year. Engaging in impactful experiences and setting clear goals from the beginning can help facilitate a year of meaningful growth, rather than a period of unstructured downtime.  

A gap year is not a one-size-fits-all solution. I always encourage students to reflect on their readiness for independence, their financial situation, how they envision using the year, and what they hope to gain. If approached thoughtfully and purposefully, a gap year can be a rewarding experience that provides valuable insights and new skills, setting the stage for a more fulfilling and successful college journey.