Is A Gap Year Good For Me?

One question I am often asked by parents is if taking a gap year would be beneficial to their child. This depends on the student and the situation. It also must be done or taken with the right motives behind it. If you are considering taking a gap year but not sure if it's the right choice for you? Let's explore the benefits and reasons behind taking a gap year.

Firstly, taking a gap year can be extremely helpful for students experiencing academic fatigue or burnout. If you've worked hard to get into a great college but feel exhausted and unmotivated, taking a gap year could help you restore your energy and reboot your mind, so you're ready to tackle the rigors of college.

Additionally, a gap year can be a great opportunity for students who need to increase their security and maturity. Perhaps you've spent most of your life in school or at home and need some time to learn how to navigate the world on your own. Working or traveling during a gap year can help you mature and gain the confidence you need to succeed in college.

For students who lack focus and passion, a gap year can also provide an opportunity to gain new perspective and direction. Rather than feeling pressured to follow a certain path or major, taking a gap year to explore different jobs or travel can help you discover your passion and give you a clear direction for your future studies.

For some, a gap year can be a great opportunity to gain experience in a research or work related field that will add to your understanding and grasp of the area you plan to pursue in college. This experience is a great way to really know if this is the right path for you and better prepare you to do well in your undergraduate studies leading to a better chance of getting into a highly regarded graduate program.

Finally, a gap year can offer students a broader perspective on other people and cultures. Many high school students have lived in a bubble and haven't been exposed to different ways of thinking and doing things. Traveling and living in a new culture can give you a better understanding of the world around you and prepare you for the diverse experiences you'll encounter in college.

Of course, taking a gap year should not be a decision made lightly. It's important to have clear motivations and goals in mind, and to understand any potential drawbacks, such as loss of academic motivation or cost. However, if you're experiencing burnout, lack of direction, or a need for new experiences, a gap year can be a productive and helpful experience that will better prepare you for success in college and beyond.

Famous Alumni

Christine Todd Whitman – Former Governor of New Jersey and former head of the E.P.A., appointed by George W. Bush in 2001. Is a graduate of Wheaton College located in Norton, Massachusetts. Christine Todd Whitman graduated from Wheaton in 1968 with a degree in government and later worked on Nelson Rockefeller’s presidential campaign launching her career into politics.