Hitting Pause: College Deferral

The college acceptance letters are rolling in, but something feels off. Maybe you're burnt out from senior year, unsure of your major, or itching for adventure. Enter the gap year.

Why Take a Gap Year?

Gap years aren't just for backpacking through Southeast Asia (although that can be part of it!). Here are some reasons why a break might be just what you need:

Self-discovery: Use this time to volunteer, intern, or take a deep dive into a personal passion. It's a low-pressure way to explore potential career paths and figure out what truly sparks your joy.

Travel: Broaden your horizons by experiencing different cultures and ways of life. This can boost your independence, communication skills, and understanding of the world.

Recharge: Feeling burnt out? A gap year can be the reset button you need. Recharge your mental batteries and return to college feeling motivated and ready to tackle academics.

How to Defer Admission

The good news is many colleges are on board with gap years! Here's how to make it official:

  1. Check with your college - Deferral policies vary. Most colleges allow a one-year deferral, but some may have deadlines or require a reason for your request. Talk to your admissions counselor to get the specifics.
  2. Write a deferral letter - Explain your goals for your gap year and how it will benefit your college experience. Be clear about your intention to return to that specific school.
  3. Keep your grades up - Deferral is typically contingent on maintaining good academic standing.

Do Colleges Like Deferrals?

Believe it or not, colleges often view gap years positively! This is because colleges know that taking a gap year produces stronger applicants, a reduced drop-out rate, and diverse experiences among students.

Stronger applicants: A well-planned gap year can demonstrate maturity, independence, and a commitment to your education.

Reduced dropout rates: Students who take gap years are statistically less likely to drop out of college.

Diverse experiences: Colleges value well-rounded students with unique experiences. A gap year allows you to bring fresh perspectives to the classroom.

The Takeaway

Taking a gap year isn't a detour, it's an investment in yourself and your future. If you're feeling unsure about college or crave a break, a gap year might be the perfect answer. Just remember to plan strategically, communicate with your colleges, and use this time to grow and explore. You might just surprise yourself with what you discover!

Pacific Discovery’s Gap Semester Programs are a combination of education, service-learning, adventure, cultural immersion, wilderness exploration, and self discovery. All packed into a six or ten week program abroad, you’ll experience perspective altering activities alongside new lifelong friends.

To learn more about Pacific Discovery’s Gap Travel options, head to https://www.pacificdiscovery.org/programs.

Posted by on June 07, 2024