Download - Gap Year Overview 2015
The New OptionAn introduction to taking a gap year before college
What is a Gap Year?
A Gap Year is a structured period of personal growth that can include
activities such as volunteering, interning, language study, outdoor adventure, travel and enrichment
programs.
A gap year is typically taken between high school graduation
and higher education.
Gap Year students show a clear pattern of having higher G.P.A.s than traditional students and the positive effect lasts over all four years.
[ http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com]
60% of surveyed Gap Year students said the experience either "set me on my current career path/academic major" or "confirmed my choice of career/academic major.” [Haigler/Nelson, The Gap Year Advantage]
88% of Gap Year graduates report that their Gap Year significantly added to their employability.
90% of students who take a Gap Year begin college within a year.
Advantages of aGap Year
• Explore Interests/Careers
• Discover strengths
• Break from the classroom
• Independence
• New Skills
• Maturity
• Exposure to new cultures
• Reignite interest in learning
Types of Gap Year Opportunities
• Volunteering
• Internships
• Working
• Exploring/Traveling
• Study Abroad
• Service Learning
• Enrichment/Courses
Service Learning & Study Abroad
Service LearningStudy Abroad
Working & Interning
Volunteering
Exploring/Traveling
Enrichment/Courses
College Logistics
• Easiest path: Deferment after admission– Letter of intent– Double check the school’s policy
• Financial aid– Case by case basis, most schools won’t
guarantee a package for the following year
• Reapplying during gap year:
BudgetingA gap year IS affordable.
Gap year costs can range between $4,000-$40,000
• Child’s responsibility: – Fundraising– Working– Sticking to budget
• Parent’s responsibility:– Supplementing costs – Developing a realistic budget
Potential Costs:• Program fees
• Airfare & Transport
• Visas
• Immunizations/meds
• Travel insurance
• Travel gear/clothing
• Incidentals
• Independent Travel
Tips for Planning• Open communication • Set personal goals• Create a timeline and
budget• Student = Captain
(but parents: follow up!)• Choose organizations
carefully
Questions & Answers
EnRoute Consulting, 2015, enroutegapyear.com