When you're a high school student getting ready for college, the way that you spend your time is crucial. You can transition into this life change by taking a Gap Year and also opting to study abroad. In this article, you'll learn more about combining these aspects to become a better person and to further your education.
What Exactly Is a Gap Year and Why Is It Beneficial?
A Gap Year refers to you taking time off from school for a year—typically the year between senior year of high school and freshman year of college. This year is usually spent in a way that is still beneficial to the students' education and future, such as in the form of an internship, study program, mission trip, volunteer work, or educational travel. These years provide an excellent transition that allows for growth and exploration before getting back on track with college.
Among Gap Year students surveyed, 77% said that they found a new purpose in their lives, and 75% said it landed them employment after college. These programs are structured and intended to make you a better person and student by the end of it.
Why Should You Look Into Spending That Gap Year Abroad?
If you're going to spend a Gap Year, studying abroad is one of the best ways to go about it. When you study abroad, you'll get the chance to immerse yourself in another culture, learn another language, and become a better student as a whole.
It's also beneficial for people looking to continuously further their education. Surveys show that 90% of study abroad students were able to get into one of their top grad school choices following the study abroad program. Studying abroad is particularly helpful if your college major of choice involves the study of other countries, cultures, or languages, or if the career path involves travel and culture exchanges.
Have You Found a Quality Study Abroad Program?
Take time out to look into the best study abroad programs that can help you out when you're interested in a Gap Year. Look into the structure of the program and make sure that they have programs in your location of choice. Be sure that you also study some financial aid opportunities and make sure that you can get some college credit whenever possible.
Use the tips above if you're interested. Contact services that offer high school gap year study abroad programs to learn more.
