Are gap year wilderness programs worth it?

I've heard about wilderness programs that people do during gap years. Has anyone participated in one of these? What are they like and do you feel they were beneficial, especially in terms of personal growth?

I've spoken with students who have participated in gap year wilderness programs and many of them found the experience to be extremely beneficial. These programs are an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills such as navigation and camping skills, and they often involve team-building activities that can help improve your communication and leadership abilities.

Beyond this, however, many students found the most valuable parts of these programs to be the personal growth and self-discovery they facilitate. Being in a wilderness setting, away from familiar comforts and distractions, allows for a lot of introspection. You learn about your strengths and limitations and how to adapt to challenging situations. This can lead to increased self-confidence, resilience, and independence, qualities that are beneficial in any stage of life, including college.

One additional point to consider is what you aim to gain from your gap year as a whole. If you want to explore new environments, challenge yourself, and learn about sustainability and natural conservation, then a wilderness program could be a great fit. If your goal is to gain work experience or academic skills, then you might want to look into internships or vocational programs.

Remember that a gap year is a personal journey, and it's most valuable when it aligns with your personal and academic goals. Don't choose a program just because it seems impressive or because someone else found it beneficial. Tailor your gap year to aid in your personal development and enrich your own unique path.