Taking a Gap Year to Travel: Is It Worth It?

I've been thinking about taking a gap year to travel and explore new places before starting college. Has anyone done this and found it beneficial? How did it impact your college admissions and personal growth?

From a college admissions perspective, taking a gap year can actually be a great opportunity, as long as it's used productively. Many universities view gap years favorably because students who take them often display qualities like independence, initiative, and a global perspective. If you spend your gap year in meaningful pursuits - which certainly can include travel if you engage deeply with the cultures and communities you visit - you may find yourself with rich experiences to write about in your essays, further strengthening your application.

When it comes to personal growth, the benefits can be significant as well. Travel can provide firsthand experiences of different cultures, languages, and ways of life, which can broaden your perspective and develop your communication and problem-solving skills. Working or volunteering during your travels can also give you insight into what you're passionate about and what you might want to do in the future.

However, there are some factors to consider before deciding. One is to communicate with the colleges you're interested in. Some universities are more supportive of gap years than others, and you'll want to know their policies on deferring admission. Bear in mind that you'll be living a different lifestyle than many of your peers, which can be both exciting and challenging. Also, traveling can be quite expensive. You might need to find work or secure funding to support yourself during this year.

In sum, if you're motivated by a longing to explore and learn outside the traditional classroom environment, a gap year spent traveling can add to your personal growth, give you unique experiences to draw upon in your future studies, and potentially strengthen your college applications.