Is there a link between success and taking a gap year?

I've heard that some students who take a gap year end up being more successful in college. Is this true? Are there any statistics or personal anecdotes that could help me understand the potential benefits?

There are several studies that point to the potential benefits of taking a gap year. However, remember that correlation does not equal causation, and the benefits can largely come from what the student makes of the gap year.

Firstly, the choice to take a gap year itself often indicates a certain level of self-awareness and maturity as these students are making a deliberate choice to diverge from the traditional path and take some time for self-discovery or personal growth.

According to a survey by the American Gap Association, students who had taken a gap year were more likely to graduate on time, and many gap year students indicated they felt more purposeful in their post-gap year studies. They also identified benefits such as gaining a better sense of who they are as a person and what is important to them, and becoming more mature.

Robert Clagett, former Dean of Admissions at Middlebury College, conducted a study on Middlebury students and found that those who had taken a gap year almost invariably over-performed academically in college, relative to what their credentials would have projected.

However, it's important to mention that taking a gap year is not a guaranteed path to success. It strongly depends on how the year is spent. Gap years can provide the opportunity to explore interests, acquire skills, gain real-world experience, or contribute to a cause, through things like internships, work placements, volunteering, or traveling and experiencing new cultures. This, in turn, can lead to increased self-confidence, independence, and time management skills – all directly beneficial for success in college.

Yet, a gap year spent without a plan or set goals might not provide these benefits. So, for students considering taking a gap year, planning how to spend that time wisely is crucial.

Remember, every student's path is unique. What works for one may not work for another. It's important to assess your own needs, goals, and aspirations while considering such a significant decision.