Does anyone know of any gap year programs that have a strong academic focus? I want to keep learning during my gap year while also exploring new opportunities. Any suggestions?
Yes, there certainly are several gap year programs with a robust academic focus. Here are a few that might be of interest:
1. Global Citizen Year – This program aims to develop future global leaders by immersing students in community service, apprenticeship, and curriculum-based learning in countries like Brazil, Ecuador, Senegal, and India.
2. Thinking Beyond Borders – Known for their Global Gap Year program, students study and work in fields like education, healthcare, and sustainability, while living in multiple countries over the course of a year.
3. City Year – Part of AmeriCorps, students spend a year in service working as tutors and mentors in under-resourced schools. City Year also offers extensive training programs and provides a scholarship at the end of the service year.
4. Harvard's Gap Year Program – Open to Harvard admitted students, this program gives them a structured year of service before they begin college.
Do note that each program has its own unique experience and place of focus. Given your interests, consider what area you would like to explore further, whether that's volunteer work, developing specific skills, or gaining experience in a certain field. Once you identify that, do some more detailed research into these programs. It's also a good idea to connect with alumni of these programs to get a first-hand understanding of their experiences.
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