Gap Year Options: Should You Take One Before College?

10 June 2025

So, you’ve just wrapped up high school. The graduation cap has been tossed in the air, the yearbooks are signed, and suddenly—boom!—you're staring adulthood in the face. College is the next expected step, right? But what if you’re feeling a little burned out or unsure about what you actually want to study? What if the thought of more tests, deadlines, and all-nighters makes you want to run for the hills?

Here’s a thought: what if you pressed pause instead of racing forward?

Welcome to the world of gap years—where the road less traveled might just be the adventure you need.

What Is a Gap Year Anyway?

A gap year is basically a break—usually about a year—taken between high school and college. It’s a chance to step off the academic treadmill and do something different. Think of it like halftime in a game. You've played hard during high school; now’s your chance to catch your breath, reassess your strategy, and head into college stronger and more focused.

Gap years can be all kinds of things: traveling, volunteering, interning, working, learning new skills, or even diving into personal projects. It's your opportunity to figure out who you are outside the classroom walls.

Why Are More Students Considering a Gap Year?

To be completely honest, college is expensive, exhausting, and not a one-size-fits-all journey.

With rising tuition costs and increased pressure to have it "all figured out" by age 18, many students are taking a step back to reconsider their direction. The pandemic also opened our eyes to the possibility of doing things differently—and maybe even better.

A gap year offers that fresh perspective. It’s a strategic timeout to recharge, reflect, and realign goals. Instead of following the conveyor belt from high school to college, you're choosing to take the scenic route—and that can make all the difference.

What You Can Do During a Gap Year

Alright, so you’re sold on taking a gap year. But now you're probably thinking, “Cool—but what do I actually do with all that time?”

Here's the fun part. You can design your gap year to suit your passions and goals. Let’s break down some popular (and awesome) options.

1. Travel the World

Ah, the classic. Whether it's backpacking through Europe, volunteering in South America, or teaching English in Asia, traveling opens up worlds—literally and figuratively. You learn independence, confidence, and how to navigate unfamiliar places. Plus, nothing builds character like figuring out a foreign public transport system at 2 AM.

But here’s a tip: traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. Think homestays, work exchanges, or budget programs designed for gap year students.

2. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About

Giving back is a powerful way to spend your year. Whether it’s helping build homes, tutoring kids, working at animal shelters, or engaging in environmental conservation, volunteering leaves a lasting impact—on you and the community you’re serving.

It also looks great on future college and job applications. More importantly, it builds empathy, leadership skills, and gives you a deeper understanding of the world beyond your own bubble.

3. Intern or Work For Real-World Experience

Want to test drive a career before committing years of study to it? Internships and part-time jobs give you valuable insight into different industries. Whether you're shadowing a doctor, working at a startup, or flipping burgers, you're building transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and time management.

Plus, earning and saving money before college? That’s a win-win.

4. Take Online Courses or Learn a New Skill

A gap year doesn’t mean you stop learning—it just means you start learning differently. Want to code? Learn graphic design? Master a musical instrument? Dive into creative writing? Plenty of online platforms offer affordable (or even free) courses.

You can use this year to deepen a passion or discover a new one. Who knows? That hobby might even become your future career.

5. Start a Personal Project

Always dreamed of writing a book? Creating a YouTube channel? Launching a small business or non-profit? Your gap year can be a launchpad for personal projects that usually get buried under school assignments.

The time, energy, and freedom to create something meaningful? That’s priceless.

Pros of Taking a Gap Year

Let’s talk benefits—because there are a lot of them.

You Get a Break (And You’ve Earned It)

High school can be mentally and emotionally draining. A gap year allows you to breathe, reset, and avoid college burnout before it even begins. You'll step into your next chapter refreshed and ready.

You’ll Gain Clarity

Not sure what to major in? Or what career you want? Taking time off to explore different experiences can offer clarity. You might discover passions you didn’t know you had or realize that your original plan doesn’t quite fit anymore.

Boosted Confidence and Maturity

Living outside your comfort zone (especially abroad) forces you to grow up fast. By the time you arrive at college, odds are you’ll be more independent, responsible, and mature than your peers.

Improved College Performance

Interestingly, studies have shown that students who take a gap year often come back to school more focused and perform better academically. Why? Because they’re more motivated and have a clearer sense of purpose.

Stand Out in Applications and Interviews

A meaningful gap year can turn into a golden nugget for your college essays, scholarships, and job interviews. It shows initiative, curiosity, and resilience—traits that schools and employers love.

What Are the Downsides?

Now, let’s keep it real. A gap year isn’t all rainbows and Instagrammable sunsets.

It Can Get Pricey

Travel and extracurricular programs cost money. Some students rely on savings, part-time work, or scholarships (yes, there are scholarships for gap years!). Budgeting and planning are key to making it work.

You Might Lose Academic Momentum

Taking a break from studying can make it harder to get back into the groove. That’s why it’s helpful to incorporate some light educational elements—like reading, writing, or online courses—to stay sharp.

Not Everyone Will Understand

Some friends or family members might not "get it." And that’s okay. Remember, it’s your journey. Explain your reasons with confidence, and trust your gut.

Tips for Planning a Successful Gap Year

So, how do you make the most of this time without losing direction?

Set Clear Goals

Start by asking yourself: What do I want to get out of this year? Travel experience? Work skills? A bit of soul-searching? Having clear goals keeps you motivated and prevents the year from turning into a lazy 12-month Netflix binge.

Create a Flexible Plan

Be intentional but not rigid. Sketch out a general plan with key activities and timelines, but leave room for surprises and spontaneous opportunities.

Stay Organized

Keep a journal or digital tracker of the things you experience, learn, or feel. It’s a great way to reflect on your growth—and it’ll come in handy when writing college or scholarship essays later on.

Consider a Structured Program

If full-on planning sounds overwhelming, there are tons of organizations offering structured gap year programs that combine travel, learning, and service. Just be sure to research thoroughly and read reviews.

Talk to a Guidance Counselor or Gap Year Advisor

These pros can help you assess your options, recommend programs, and even connect you with funding opportunities.

Gap Year Success Stories

Need inspiration? Here are a few real-life examples (names changed for privacy):

- Jake spent his gap year working at a tech startup. He entered college the following year with not only tech skills but also a clearer idea that he wanted to major in computer science.

- Maya volunteered with a wildlife rescue center in Costa Rica. The experience completely shifted her plan from pre-med to environmental science.

- Liam took online courses in psychology, read tons of books, and started a mental health blog. That passion later turned into a scholarship-winning college application.

Final Thoughts: Is a Gap Year Right For You?

Here’s the thing—taking a gap year isn’t about avoiding college; it’s about preparing for it in a more meaningful way. It’s about taking ownership of your future. If you’re feeling uncertain, burned out, or just itching to try something bold, a gap year could be your perfect next step.

That said, it’s not for everyone. Some students thrive in the academic rhythm and jump straight into college life without missing a beat. And that’s totally fine.

The key is to choose the path that feels right for you—not the one everyone expects you to take.

So, should you take a gap year before college?

Only you can answer that. But if your heart’s telling you to pause, reflect, and explore—maybe it’s time to listen.