Should you take a gap year to travel?

I'm trying to decide if a gap year filled with travel is a good idea before starting college. I've heard it can be life-changing, but I'm not sure if it's the right move for me. What are the pros and cons?

Deciding whether to take a gap year for travel is a personal decision that depends heavily on individual circumstances, interests, and future goals. There are indeed many potential benefits and also a few considerations or drawbacks to think about.

Pros of a gap year for travel:

1. Self-discovery: A gap year can be a time of significant growth and personal discovery. It would offer a break from structured learning and provide you the chance to explore new perspectives and cultures.

2. Developing soft skills: You can gain valuable soft skills, including problem-solving, adaptable thinking, and independence during your travels. These skills would be beneficial during your college years and beyond.

3. Appreciating education more: Some students find that having the break makes them more eager to return to structured learning and pursue their degree with renewed motivation.

4. Expanded worldview: Traveling exposes you to diverse cultures and ways of life, which aids in developing an open-minded and accepting worldview.

Cons of taking a gap year:

1. Possible delay in education: You would start college one year later than your peers. This could also delay your entry into the job market post-graduation.

2. Cost: Traveling can be expensive. You'll have to think about how to fund your travel experiences, and whether you would want to defer college loans or costs for a year while potentially adding travel expenses.

3. Academic skills atrophy: There's a risk that study skills could become rusty during the gap year, which might pose a challenge when you start college.

4. Re-adjustment: You might find it challenging to readjust to academic life and routines after a year of freedom and exploration, especially in case you've ventured into adventurous activities or constructed a completely different daily routine.

In general, gap years are not for everyone, but they can be a hugely beneficial experience for some students. Consider your personal circumstances, academic goals, emotional readiness, and financial means before making a decision. You must also consider your intentions for the gap year and measure whether the intended outcomes align with your long-term goals. Will that year be purposeful and meaningful for you, or would it be more advantageous to continue straight into tertiary study?

Also, keep in mind that you should include a section about your gap year activities in your college applications. This way, colleges see that the gap year added value to your personal growth or perspective, which can be attractive to admissions officers.