Hey guys, I'm a junior and I've been feeling really burnt out with school. I'm considering the idea of taking a gap year after high school before attending college. How do colleges typically view gap years, and will it hurt my chances of getting into the schools I want? Also, any recommendations on how to make the most of a gap year?
Hello! It's perfectly normal to feel burnt out, and taking a gap year can be a valuable opportunity to refresh, gain new experiences, and come back with a stronger sense of focus. Most colleges have a positive view of gap years, especially if you're able to showcase personal and academic growth during that time.
When thinking about a gap year, consider ways to make it productive and meaningful. This could include volunteering, interning, working, traveling, or pursuing a passion project. The key is to use this time to develop new skills and have experiences that can add depth to your college application.
If you decide on a gap year, communicate your plans clearly in your application and explanation essays.Emphasizing how your gap year will contribute to your personal and academic growth will show colleges the value of this decision. Remember, it's your life and your future, so ultimately the decision should be based on what's best for you.
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