Gap Year Opportunities After High School?

I'm considering taking a gap year after high school but am unsure what opportunities are out there. Has anyone taken a gap year and had a great experience? What kind of programs or jobs should I look into? Would love some advice!

There are various ways you can make use of a gap year to have a fruitful and growth-inducing experience. Many students often opt for one of several broad categories: volunteering, studying, interning, or working.

1. Volunteering: If you're passionate about making a difference, you could consider programs like AmeriCorps, Habitat for Humanity, or the Peace Corps.

2. Studying: There are many study programs specifically designed for gap year students. For example, the Harvard Extension School offers a gap year program to recent high school graduates.

3. Interning: There are many internships available through youth-focused platforms like Handshake or LinkedIn.

4. Working: If you are interested in gaining job experience, you can look for part-time or full-time positions related to your field of interest. Many high school graduates find work in customer service, teaching (like tutoring, or at a day-care center), or entry-level administrative roles.

It is also essential to consider what you'd like to achieve during your gap year and how it aligns with your goals post-gap year. For example, if you intend to attend college after the gap year, you might look for something that strengthens your portfolio. Or, if you plan to jump straight into the workforce, work experience might be the best route.

Lastly, carefully consider resources available to you and factoring in costs—gap year programs can be expensive, but there are often financial aid opportunities available to help offset the cost. You can look into options at the American Gap Association or similar organizations.

This is not a decision to be made lightly, so take your time while exploring your options!