Alternative Routes to a College Degree - GAP Year
Alternative Routes to a College Degree - GAP Year[1]
There are many opportunities for students who wish to attend college but who seek a longer transition than the traditional summer break between high school and college. Taking a year to travel, study abroad, do volunteer work , or work are just a few of the many things high school graduates can do before entering college. The preferred term for the time between high school and college is termed the GAP year.
Taking a break between high school and college is a great idea for some students. Students tend to be more mature, and are ready and eager to start college when starting after a GAP year. It is usually advisable for students who wish to take a GAP year to apply to college during their senior year of high school, deposit at a college, and defer for a year.
WEB Resources for GAP Exploration
Below is a partial list of websites where GAP students can find activities of interest. I advise all parents to thoroughly research these programs, and any programs of interest, including calling the Better Business Bureau.
General Information Sites
ServeNet
A program of Youth Service America (YSA) where volunteers are matched with service opportunities according to location, skills, interests, and availability.
Study Overseas
A web site offering free advice and information on overseas programs
Study Abroad
A web site offering similar resources as above with a more comprehensive directory of programs
Specific Volunteer and Service Programs
Americorps
Participants address community need in the areas of education, public safety, human services, and the environment. They also receive a stipend, health insurance and a financial award up to $4,725 for a year of full-time service to be used for further education.
AFS Intercultural Exchange
One of the largest community-based volunteer organizations, AFS seeks to build a more just and peaceful world through international student exchange. More than 10,000 students, young adults and teachers participate in AFS each year.
Habitat for Humanity International
A nondenominational Christian housing organization that welcomes all people to build simple, decent and affordable housing in partnership with those in need of shelter.
Experiential Learning Programs (Tuition/Fees Required)
Outward Bound
Programs in adventure and outdoor education are held throughout the U.S. and Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Audubon Expedition Institute
Based at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, AEI specializes in experimental educational opportunities in ecological leadership.
www.lesley.edu/gsass/audubon/index.html
Windsor Mountain
Known for experiential learning, it has introduced half-year and full-year programs for those between high school and college. There is a choice of one or two 16-week programs that combine travel, volunteering, internships and other options.
[1] Fundamentals of College Admission Counseling by NACAC, National Association for College Admission Counseling
