San Rafael High School

What is a Gap Year?

GYA defines a gap year as “an intentional period of time devoted to personal growth and exploration through experiential learning opportunities.” More information here.

What are some benefits of taking a Gap Year?

According to past research, gap year alumni:

• Report an increase in academic motivation and purpose
• Take less time to earn a college degree than the national average
• Report an increase in maturity and self-confidence
• Feel an increase in critical thinking skills and cultural awareness
• Feel better prepared for further education or career
• Have higher clarity around their college major and/or career choices

More information here.

Interested in learning more? Check out the resources below:

• National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) – https://www.nols.edu/en/ 
• Where There Be Dragons – https://www.wheretherebedragons.com 
• Outward Bound – https://www.outwardbound.org 
• Rustic Pathways – https://rusticpathways.com 
• Oxbridge Academic Programs – www.oxbridgeprograms.com 
• Global Youth Village – www.globalyouthvillage.org 
• Amigos – https://amigosinternational.org/ 

• Carpe Diem Education – https://www.carpediemeducation.org/ 

• ARCC Programs – https://www.adventurescrosscountry.com/gap/ 

Free/ Low Cost Programs: 

• Habitat for Humanity – https://www.habitat.org/stories/is-a-gap-year-right-for-you 
• City Year – https://www.cityyear.org/ 
• Public Allies – https://publicallies.org/americorps-program/ 
• The Corps Network – https://corpsnetwork.org/ 
• Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms – https://wwoof.net/ 
• Global Volunteers – https://globalvolunteers.org/