Photo Courtesy of Annie Spratt
COVID-19 has created a challenging year for those in school. Especially for upperclassmen in school that are feeling low on time and high in stress, college applications and SATs leave many students wondering how they should prepare for the future and if it can be done amidst the pandemic. Even without today’s global crisis, burnout and pressure are common problems that leave most people thinking, “what do I do?”
Many individuals consider taking a gap year when they are unsure of a path, how to execute their plans for after high school or college, or when they just need a break. Also known as a sabbatical year or a deferral, a gap year is exactly what it sounds like: taking a year-long break off of work or school. Although the reasons for taking a break for a year vary from student to student, gap years traditionally signal a transition. Examples include those going from high school to college or from job to job—most popularly, gap years are used by students with aspirations to travel or go backpacking both educationally and for recreation. Gap years give these people a time to rediscover their career path and prepare for it as well.
Depending on what the reason for taking a gap year is, money might be the biggest aspect. As of Nov. 2020, student debt stands at a collective sum of $1.55 trillion— per year, the average cost of college is $35,720 per student. As the pandemic creates barriers between everyday life, and these numbers steadily rise, college students might opt to take an off year to save money in order to relieve financial tension, as well as the stress of working a part or full-time job during school. The downside of this option still resides in the problem of time, opportunities, and motivation. The cost of gap years results in additional years of college, many might find it hard to get back into the “groove” of school and fall behind their peers.
While the financial aspect of gap years is what persuades many to pursue this year-long break, it can be the same reason that drives them away. Gap years aren’t just a period of diligent work to earn money, gap years are great outlets for travel— those who take deferrals to travel may find a change in their interests, studies, and majors. In fact, Princeton, Yale, Harvard, and many more colleges, actually promote and support their students for taking deferrals. Some colleges, such as Florida State or Duke University, even provide gap year programs that can grant funds as well. According to the Gap Year Association (GYA), 81% percent of those surveyed took gap years to grow and gain life experiences. In the same survey, GYA also reported that “approximately half of participants (52%) spent $10,000 or less, while about one third (34%) spent more than $10,000.”
One’s decision to take gap years is completely dependent on oneself and their college. Overall, taking a gap year is nothing to be ashamed or afraid of— most importantly, it should not just be considered economically or financially, but also considered by the benefits it can provide. Taking this year break may move students forward and change their interests, health, and paths for the future.