Wisconsin gap year programs worth checking out?

As a high school junior in Wisconsin, I'm interested in local gap year opportunities that could provide valuable skills or experiences. Are there any particular programs in the area that you would recommend?

While I'm not aware of any Wisconsin-specific gap year programs right off the top of my head, a gap year can be a time for you to tailor your experiences to match your interests or goals, and you can certainly do this within your home state. Consider engaging with organizations that align with your career goals.

For example, if you're interested in the field of social work or activism, you may want to intern at a local non-profit organization that is making a difference in your community. There are thousands of such organizations in Wisconsin that work in diverse areas such as food security, conservation, homelessness, and more.

If healthcare or the medical field is something you're considering, hospitals in your area might provide volunteer opportunities. Volunteering at a hospital can offer insight into various careers within the healthcare system and can be a valuable experience for future applications.

For those interested in education, tutoring or mentoring programs can be a great gateway for gaining teaching experience. Some organizations also offer leadership training and workshops that can equip you with essential skills for your future career.

Business-minded individuals might find it useful to look into internships within local industries or enroll in a business-focused program. Whether it's small family-run businesses or larger corporations, these experiences can provide a firsthand look into how businesses operate.

If you're unsure about the direction you would like to take after high school, joining an AmeriCorps chapter could be a good choice. AmeriCorps is a government service organization that provides gap year opportunities in many areas such as education, health, and the environment. Plus, as part of your service, you'll earn education credits that can later help pay for college or pay off student loans.

Just remember, there's no "right" way to spend a gap year! The most important thing is to make the year meaningful to you and to use the time to grow in areas you're passionate about. With a little bit of research, you can certainly find gap year experiences in Wisconsin that satisfy your interests.