What's a gap year??

Innovations in Civic Participation recently posted about the lack of awareness that American high school students have about the "gap year" as compared to other students in Europe.

Having grown up in Iowa, I attest that the idea of a break between high school and college was foreign to me until my step mom, a worldly traveler, mentioned that European students commonly take at least a year off before furthering their education. In our American culture, we're led to believe that continuing onto college is the way it's "supposed to be" if we want to do something with our lives. I agree with ICP that not enough American high school students understand fully the concept of a gap year or its advantages. Awareness needs to be spread in the U. S. Students need to know that they are not alone and that there are programs available to help find education programs, work and housing.

The gap year does not serve as a year of drinking and partying. As ICP states, "What all of these gap year programs have in common is a sense of broadening horizons." Living and working with diverse people helps you understand not only others, but also yourself. Although you may not know it when you're "in the moment," once you resume furthering your education you will have accomplishments to share in your college application or with other students you meet.

A family friend graduated recently from high school and is working in Germany for six months. One of my sorority sisters volunteered in South America for a year before enrolling at Simpson. A former professor of mine studied in Switzerland for a year. These are only a few examples of individuals I know personally, and I can only hope that these instances help others understand that a gap year can be done. Whether it is to work, volunteer or study, a gap year can present positive opportunities for recent high school graduates.

The most difficult aspect is not only deciding to have a gap year, but acting on having a gap year. Have a gap year NOW rather than after you assume personal or fiscal responsibilities!