Ideas for a Gap Year Before College?

I'm considering taking a gap year before starting college and I'm curious what options are out there. Are there popular or meaningful ways students typically spend this time to gain experiences or learn new skills?

Taking a gap year can be a meaningful experience and there are many paths you could consider based on your interests and goals.

One popular choice is to do some kind of volunteer or service work. Organizations such as AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) are well-known for providing structured volunteer opportunities. These programs can be an excellent way to contribute to a cause you care about, develop new skills, and possibly even travel.

Travel in and of itself can be a learning experience and is another common way to spend a gap year. While it may sound like a vacation, meaningful travel often involves immersing oneself in a different culture, learning a new language, and gaining a global perspective. International programs like EF Gap Year or Global Citizen Year offer structured overseas programs that incorporate community service, language learning, and internships.

Internships or work experiences are a practical option that can provide insight into potential career paths and help you develop professional skills. This could mean getting a job in a field of interest or securing an internship at a company you respect.

You might also consider taking classes at a community college or online to explore academic interests more deeply or to prepare for your planned college major. This can be especially useful for students entering rigorous or technical fields.

If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, you could even use your gap year to start a small business or launch a project you're passionate about.

Lastly, you might consider spending part of your year focusing on personal goals or passions. That could be anything from writing a novel to training for a marathon. The goal is to use this time productively, in a way that aids personal development and makes you more prepared for the next step in your life.

Remember to consider cost and availability based on your personal circumstances. Also, it's wise to apply to colleges before your gap year and then defer your admission, rather than waiting to apply during your gap year when you might be busy.