GAP YEAR PROGRAMS COVID-19: HOW IT HAS CHANGED THE INDUSTRY
REGISTER for our VIRTUAL GAP INFORMATION SESSIONS
PLUS: GAP PROGR AMS + ADVISOR S
A TEENLIFE MEDIA PUBLICATION
www.teenlife.com 1
PRESENTING THE 2021 GUIDE TO GAP PROGRAMS
A
gap year or transitional year—a break from traditional academics —is a chance to explore, pause, and reflect before entering the next step of academia. Students use this time to gain better understanding of
themselves and the type of impact they want to have on the world. The programs represented in TeenLife’s 2021 Guide to Gap Year Programs span all kinds of gap oppor tunities, schedules, and budgets. Whatever it might be, it is an oppor tunit y for you to focus on personal grow th before you take those next steps in life. COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down. Many universities and colleges
Marie Schwartz
are choosing to keep their students safe and limit their academic year to
CEO & Founder
virtual or distance learning. In response, students are asking if this pandemic
TeenLife Media, LLC
presents the opportunity to pursue a different avenue instead of the direct transition into higher learning. Additionally, gap programs are working hard to reflect the times by offering virtual gap programs where you can still connect and learn about the world around you from your home. Gap programs don’t have to be expensive. Many of these programs offer financial aid or can help you figure out other funding strategies. So don’t think of a gap as a year “off ” but as a year “on” for travel, community ser vice, interning, field experience, language immersion – or whatever opportunity you can imagine that might shape the next stage of life. Our guide can help you figure out precisely what your gap experience might look like. We are determined to connect you with exciting and unique gap programs, and that includes conducting live virtual events so you can hear from experts and ask questions to better understand the opportunities available to you. If you have questions, then we have answers! Be sure to register for our TeenLife Live: Virtual Gap Fair Information Session on April 7th. Recordings from our December Event can be found on TeenLife.com. And if you want to discover more exciting, experience-based programs— whether it’s for a year, a semester, a summer or a week—be sure to subscribe and join our community. Email me at mschwartz@teenlife.com to tell me what you discover during your gap year.
QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS? Email me at mschwartz@teenlife.com 1
WELCOME FROM THE GAP YEAR ASSOCIATION
C
OVID-19 has changed the landscape for gap years dramatically, with incredible grow th domestically and innovation programmatically. While not all students were able to f ind a spot on their per fect
program in 2020, we’re encouraged to see myriad ways students have hacked their own gap years, built passion projects around core issues, and risen to meet the oppor tunities for ser vice in their communities. A s program providers lean into proven protocols and adapt programs to be COVID-conscious, 2021 will continue to see more destinations available internationally and domestically. While many students recently came to the
Ethan Knight Executive Director Gap Year A ssociation
gap year because their college looked signif icantly dif ferent, they are still f inding great returns from this intentional time of exploration and pathsetting. In fact, the Gap Year A ssociation has emerging data showing gap year outcomes with profound and enduring benef its for many years into academics, career and life. So whether 2021 has you looking towards a domestic program doing a (vir tual/in-person) internship, activism, outdoor conser vation work, assistant teaching, disaster relief, literar y education, cer tif ication studies, or even parallel with online college, there are options for you. Or, if 2021 has you angling for some of the expanded international program options, I strongly encourage you to make a list of only the activities and simultaneously build a hotlist for your own gap year. There really are more options out there than you have ideas. We hope you’ll f ind good use of TeenLife’s 2021 Guide to Gap Programs and peer-reviews, and GYA Membership status, to know qualit y. Hint: U.S. students may have traveled less frequently in 2020, but even with the pandemic, many hundreds still found responsible ways to Ireland, Israel, South Africa, Costa Rica, and more. Hint: In 2019/20, gap year programs gave away more than $5 million in financial aid… so find the right program, check dates and activities, and start your planning.
Ethan Knight ethan@gapyearassociation.org 2
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
Join us for the first TeenLife LIVE Virtual Gap Year Fair in 2021!
APRIL 7, 2021 Fr ee, Registration Required We have designed an experience similar to an in - person fair where s tudent s, parent s, and educators can hear shor t present ations from multiple gap year represent atives in a shor t period of time. More information on sessions and programs will be available soon!
REGIS TER at https://w w w.teenlife.com/gap-year-vir tual-fair 3
2021 GAP YEAR
the
T H E G A P Y E A R : A M E A N I N G F U L A LT E R N AT I V E TA K IN G A GA P Y E A R C A N B E A N E M P OW E R IN G C H OIC E YOUR GAP YE AR DEFINED HOW TO PLAN FOR A SUCCESSFUL GAP YEAR GA P Y E A R 2021
by Jason Sarouhan, J2Guides 4
2021: THE GAP YEAR
THE GAP YE AR: A M E A N I N G F U L A LT E R N AT I V E A historic number of U.S. students
fall. While the rest of us sat at home
that they can welcome them back
deferred their college admissions (or
hoping for an effective and expedited
at all this winter, gap year students
didn’t return to college as planned)
vaccine in order to enjoy a semblance
have continued to be engaged in
in 2020, and opted to take a gap
of social normalcy, these gappers were
meaningful
year instead. For many of them, this
forging new friendships and leading
all over the countr y, and even a few
was a last-minute decision made in
quarantine-approved, unmasked lives
places abroad. These students are
late spring in order to: avoid paying
in their gap cohort bubbles.
thriving; savoring the lemonade that
full
hybrid
Ironically, while colleges all over
university classes, minimize potential
tuition
for
online
the countr y began sending students
disappointment
home early and crossing their fingers
if
or
their
school
learning
experiences
they made out of the lemons that 2020 offered.
closed early due to COVID, and to gain a sense of agency in a time of so much uncertainty. Parents and students agreed; enough with the sub-standard virtual education and missed milestones of the spring, it is time to start living again! In turn, the gap year field rose to meet these students. By innovating new U.S. program models and methodically designing risk management plans that minimized student exposure to the virus, gap year organizations were able to offer compelling in-person and virtual options throughout this past
TA K I N G A G A P Y E A R C A N B E AN EMPOWERING CHOICE Media coverage of the gap year tends to paint organized gap year
and engaged adults, college students,
confront the kinds of adversity and
and citizens.
world-view reshaping experiences that
programs as glorif ied vacations for
Grounded in a deep sense of integrity
gap year students courageously step
children of the wealthy. Those of us
and a commitment to individual growth,
into each year. These are not vacations.
that have dedicated our careers to
the modern gap year program presents
They are transformations.
leading and directing these programs
a student the chance to step out of her
know that young adults from all
comfort zone and learn in a mentored,
away the thin facade of ROI from
backgrounds emerge from their gap
reflective and challenging environment.
in-person
years as more resilient, adaptable
We have met few adults that aspire to
school graduates and their families
5
As
the
pandemic higher
has
stripped
education,
high
2021: THE GAP YEAR ... Taking a Gap Year Can Be An Empowering Choice continued. are f inally able to step of f of the
pandemic
relentless treadmill towards college
18-22, it is that the “one-size fits
and examine the full scope of their
most” trajectory of higher education
emerging adult education through a
has
far more holistic lens. Students can
and we have an opportunity, both
actually take a breath and assess
individually and as a society, to
for themselves when and if college
reassess which modalities we truly
is the right path and what the best
value as being “educational” and
timing is to pursue that next step.
worth investing time and money in.
been
for
individuals
definitively
aged
interrupted
If there is a silver-lining of the
THE GAP YE AR DEFINED The essence of gap time (as we
their true goals and motivations
of ten refer to it in our f ield) is simply
are for taking gap time. Like making
an intentional period that one takes
any major life commitment, those
to step out of the t ypical aspects
weighing the option of taking a gap
of one's life to learn and grow in a
year (or going to college) should start
productive way. This def inition does
with the question of ‘why.’
not suggest: how old one needs to
“Am I choosing this because I am
be, how long gap time should last,
burnt out, curious about the world,
where one needs to go, nor any thing
def lated
about what one needs to do.
Perhaps it's all of those. Perhaps it's
This is an opportunity to engage
T hose weighing the option of taking a gap year (or going to college) should
S TA R T W I T H THE QUESTION O F ‘ W H Y.’
by
coronavirus,
etc.?"
something else.
learning in an experiential and hands-
Knowing our 'why' allows us to
on way to maximize personal growth.
define our goals and then choose
A gap year serves as a bridge that
the appropriate activities, programs
amplifies our ability to be successful
and experiences that will help us
and focused while on the path that
fulfill those aspirations. We have
proceeds it, whether that is college, a
met with many hundreds of students
career, etc. Thus, a gap year is not an
exploring the gap year and each of
end in-and-of itself, but the means of
them created a unique sequence
cultivating achievement in the pursuit
of pursuits to help them fulfill their
of a future educational or professional
goals; sometimes with as many as
aspiration.
five different experiences woven into lens,
their gap time. There is no wrong way
students considering a gap year in
Reframed
through
to take a gap year as long as you are
2021 should ask themselves what
mindful of a few criteria.
6
this
2021: THE GAP YEAR
HOW TO PL AN FOR A SUCCESSFUL GAP YE AR We believe that a qualit y gap year
or no-cost: ser vice oppor tunities,
each of your goals but also a modified
is intentional, has structure, of fers
internships, skills courses and work
(and
mentorship, and includes time with
exchange all over the globe. They earn
Should travel or the chosen activity be
one’s peers. Nearly any activit y that
money, take on personal projects and
limited by current global conditions,
incorporates these facets empowers
hike thru-trails.
you will be ready to make gap time
a young adult to take ownership
Depending on travel restrictions,
of the independence that will be
an aspiring gap year student has
ref lected in their f irst chapters of
thousands of organized and supported
adulthood. Life is full of learning,
options open to them around the
and whether you end up overseas or
world. These opportunities cost far
living in your parents’ home, you can
less than a semester or year of college
make it meaning ful and productive if
and many motivated gappers have
you build in those core elements.
flourished on shoe-string budgets
A gap year can include (but of ten
In an unprecedented year like this,
goes far beyond) organized gap year
you would be wise to identif y not only
programs. Gappers also pursue low
your optimal experience for achieving
acceptable)
alternative
too.
productive no matter what.
G A P Y E A R 2 0 21 With the fluctuating uncertainty
do and we have nine months of
about the college experience in
successfully
2021, perhaps a gap year is a real
programming informing this year’s
consideration for you. If so, it is time
offerings. There are and will be many
to get clear on your ‘why(s)’ and begin
gap year options available in 2021!
researching your options. Gap year
And,
as
modified
the
2021
pandemic-
universit y
programs, volunteer organizations
landscape
and internships ever y where have
the
begun making serious modifications
that we witnessed in 2020, this is
to their programming and itineraries
a critical moment for young adults
in the face of our new reality.
and their families to pause and truly
Gap
year
likely
to
resemble
circumstances
have
assess what living and learning
always had to be nimble in order
environments will best ser ve them
to
in the coming year. ■
manage
organizations
is
unpredictable
risk
and
changing
conditions. Adapting is what we
Jason Sarouhan is the co-founder of J2Guides and is a professionally accredited gap year counselor and co-chair of the Standards & Accreditation Commit tee through the Gap Year Association.
7
ALZAR HIGH SCHOOL SEMESTERS & GAP PROGR AMS Alzar Gap provides life-changing experiences while offering tangible leadership training in Patagonia, Chile, or American West. We have 3 different programs: “Patagonia Exchange,” “Wild & Scenic,” and “Western Whitewater.” Programs range from 34-90 days and our programs are tailored to fit your schedule and interests! If you are seeking something more from your traditional educational experience and are excited to gain a broader world view and make authentic connections with diverse people in beautiful parts of the world, then Alzar Gap is your next step. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Jami Black, jblack@alzarschool.org
al z a r s c h o o l .o r g/g a p STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT Alzar Gap offers programming in Patagonia,
MIGUEL ROBLES
Chile, and the American West (Idaho, Oregon, and California).
“ When the world is your classroom, you learn about the world.” Miguel joined Alzar from Jakarta, by way of Spain, bringing an interest in international issues regarding the
TUITION $7,990 - $16,990 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships COLLEGE CREDIT For the Leadership Course APPLICATION Priorit y Deadline for Western
environment. Miguel particularly enjoyed the leadership curriculum which complemented his natural charisma, stating, “ there are so
Whitewater in Fall 2021 is March 1, 2021.
many things that the world needs
Priorit y Deadline for Patagonia Exchange and Wild
right now, and I want to be part of
& Scenic in Spring 2022 is April 1, 2021.
the change. I want to have the skills
Priorit y Deadline for Western Whitewater in
to take part.”
Summer 2022 is February 1, 2022.
START DATE January, June, September, November SESSION LENGTH 34-90 Days STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 4:14 HOUSING Homestay, Dorms, Tents DESTINATIONS Patagonia and the American West INTERESTS Adventure/ Travel, Career Exploration,
Request More Info:
Communit y Service, Environment /Conservation,
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Leadership 8
THE BL ACKBIRD ACADEMY: LIVE SOUND & STUDIO ENGINEERING The Blackbird Academy – Professional School of Audio: Founded in 2013, The Blackbird Academy has quickly risen to a top-tier school for professional audio (consistently ranked in the top 5 audio/engineering schools) and has a world-renowned reputation for outstanding graduates in both our, Live Sound & Studio Engineering Programs. Unlike other nationally ranked schools, The Blackbird Academy places unparalleled emphasis on mentor-based, hands-on education. Our students graduate not only with the technical skills needed to work in audio, but learn the art of production from the top creative names in the industry. The Blackbird Academy students have 700+ hours of handson training. The curriculum features Blackbird Studio’s gear/facilities for the Studio Program, and access to Clair Global’s massive warehouses of equipment and professional staff for the Live Sound Program. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Carma DiCianni, carma@theblackbirdacademy.com
th eb l a c k bir da c a d emy.c o m
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
CECILIA CASTLEMAN
COOL FACT We have been named one of the
Nothing is typical about The Blackbird
Top 5 Audio Schools in the nation for the past 5 years!
Academy. Ever yday is a new hands-on experience with artists, songwriters and other industr y professionals. You learn from the best people in the music industr y and are ready to start your career once you finish the six month program, if that ’s what you decide to do. It was
TUITION $23,100 FINANCIAL AID Payment Terms COLLEGE CREDIT No APPLICATION Rolling
the best six months and I’m now signed with a top publishing company in Nashville.
START DATE January, April, July, October SESSION LENGTH 6 months STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 5:1 HOUSING Apartments DESTINATIONS Nashville, Tennessee REQUEST MORE INFO:
INTERESTS Career Exploration,
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Performing & Visual Arts 9
CAMPHILL COMMUNITIES: LEARN. GROW. CREATE. CONNECT. Camphill has spent 80 years dedicated to creating sustainable, inclusive, artistic communities and schools that recognize and develop the unique gifts and capacities of each individual. Volunteers live in large extended-family-style homes and work alongside children or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They develop new interests, abilities, and creative capacities and sharpen their observational, interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills while building lifelong friendships with a diverse group of interesting people. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Leila Kaplan, Leila@camphill.org
c a m p hill .o r g/vo lu n t e er STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT Our volunteers are motivated, engaged people from
OLIVIA TARLTON
around the world. They come to learn biodynamic farming and gardening
I chose Camphill because I
or crafts like woodworking, weaving, artisan baking and more. Most have no experience with people with disabilities but tell us this was the most profound and joyful part of their Camphill experience. Our gorgeous campuses, nourishing food, and warm, welcoming environment are part of the package, along with free room and board, a stipend, and other benefits.
wanted to surround myself with people who challenge and inspire me. I found that and much more. I wish everyone could experience a place as beautiful as Camphill. A way of life so loving, peaceful and intentional... so full of laughter, compliments and dancing. I especially love how
TUITION Free $0 FINANCIAL AID Free Program COLLEGE CREDIT Yes (select programs) APPLICATION Rolling
true to themselves the people I supported are; they taught me to embrace who I am, too.
START DATE January, June, September SESSION LENGTH 6-12 months or summer STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 3:1 HOUSING Homestay, Other: Private Room DESTINATIONS New York, California, Vermont, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Minnesota, British Columbia
Request More Info:
INTERESTS Career Exploration, Community Service, Environment/Conservation, Leadership, Performing & Visual Arts 10
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
EF GAP YEAR On EF Gap Year’s customizable programs, you can sharpen your language skills, participate in service learning, intern, and travel the world for a semester, school year, or summer. You design the gap year that will help you achieve your goals and recover from academic burnout. Determine which of our 21 destinations and modules are the right fit for you with the help of our expert Gap Year Consultants. You’ll return home having discovered your passions, built real-world skills, and be eager to take on whatever your future holds in store.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT Kristina Lock, kristina.lock@ef.com
e f g a py ea r.c o m STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT
Local guides and field directors ensure you
experience every destination as the locals do. When you gaze over
REBEKAH LAMB
I didn’t know what I wanted to do
Paris from atop the Eiffel Tower or climb to the top of Machu Picchu,
after high school, but I knew I wanted
you’ll understand the context of what makes these places significant.
to take a gap year. I knew EF Gap
And you’ll visit many of these places—the average student on our 25-week program visits at least eight countries.
Year was right for me because it’s so customizable. I was able to control which countries I did my modules in and I wasn’t tied to a big group the entire time. I cannot express enough
TUITION $7,500 - $34,700+ FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships, Payment Terms COLLEGE CREDIT Yes APPLICATION Rolling
how much it impacted with me. I visited Amsterdam for the first time on my gap program and fell in love with the city—now I go to university here! My EF Gap Semester is the best
START DATE January, March, April, July, September SESSION LENGTH 3-25 weeks
decision I ever made.
STUDENT PER PROGR AM 30 to 50 HOUSING Homestay, Dorms, Hotel, Apartments DESTINATIONS Australia, China, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Peru, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Tanzania, Thailand, United Kingdom
INTERESTS Academic, Adventure/Travel, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Community Service,
Request More Info: www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Environment/Conservation, Language, Leadership 11
EF INTERNATIONAL L ANGUAGES CAMPUSES Join EF on the ultimate study-abroad adventure! Learn a language and invest in your dreams abroad. You’ll achieve fluency, see the world, expand your international network – and launch your global future. Study for six, nine or 11 months and start in April, June, September or January. Looking for something shorter? Join our flexible length courses, starting every Monday for two weeks and up. College credit, university preparation abroad, and internships are available.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT ILS@ef.com
li ve th el a n gua g e.c o m STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT
EF is the Of f icial Language Training Ser vices
ANNIKA LUNSFORD
Exclusive Supplier of the Beijing 2022 Winter Games. Beijing
EF was a perfect experience.
represents EF’s seventh Olympic appointment following Tok yo
It provided me with structure
(2020), PyeongChang (2018), Rio (2016), Sochi (2014), Beijing
but at the same time allowed
(2008), and Seoul (1988).
me freedom. I made friends for life whose backgrounds varied wildly. I loved the teachers who became my family from the first lesson. Probably one of the
TUITION From $575 per week FINANCIAL AID Payment Terms COLLEGE CREDIT Yes APPLICATION Rolling
best parts was not just the art and being in a cool city, but my home. I had the best host family in the world!
START DATE Any month SESSION LENGTH 2-15 weeks, semester, year, extended year and multi-language year
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 1:13 HOUSING Homestay, Dorms DESTINATIONS Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Costa Rica
Request More Info:
INTERESTS Academic, Adventure/Travel,
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Language 12
GAP YEAR AT SOAR The GAP Year at SOAR is designed for young adults with ADHD/LDs that have graduated from High School or have a GED. We strive to empower our participants through travel, college classes, and volunteering. They discover their talents, increase self-reliance, and experience life-changing adventures while preparing for their future. The GAP Year at SOAR encourages participants to pursue new and existing interests and strengths, develop social skills, increase life skills, and practice independent living.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT Cynthia Kelly , cynthia@soarnc.org
s o a r n c .o r g/g a p - y ea r STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
EMILY BETTIS
COOL FACT Gappers get to plan (as a group) their own expeditions and
Each moment had its own beauty, but one I really
where they travel!
remember was my last major hike, which was the Lost Coast. We hiked around 10 miles the first day, seven miles the second day, and another 10 miles on the last day from our campsite to where the van was parked. On the last day, we had to get
TUITION $53,000 FINANCIAL AID Not Available COLLEGE CREDIT Yes APPLICATION Rolling
through the high-tide zone before it reached high tide, or we would have to wait hours before being able to cross. We did it, and I was one of the people at the very front, leading the pack. My advice for
START DATE September SESSION LENGTH 8 months
those looking at possible gap year options: It ’s OK to ask for help, but remember that it ’s YOUR decision
(academic year)
that ultimately matters the most.
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 5:1 HOUSING Dorms DESTINATIONS Western US INTERESTS Adventure/ Travel, Communit y Service, Leadership
Request More Info: www.teenlife.com/request-gap 13
GLOBAL CITIZEN YEAR Our intensive leadership experience (delivered virtually) equips determined young people worldwide with powerful skills for a lifetime of social impact. The Academy is designed as a 5-10 hour per week commitment that adds an enriching layer of purpose to school, travel, or work. Students enroll in our signature leadership course, join talks with today’s most impactful changemakers, and receive personalized mentorship from a diverse pool of mentors. For those looking for deeper engagement, they can find volunteer opportunities through our network of impact partners – organizations worldwide that are at the forefront of confronting our climate crisis, ending racial inequity, preventing the next pandemic, and more. At the end of the semester (12 weeks), Academy students have the confidence to take the reins on their education, and conviction to align their lives with the world’s needs. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Sade Ojuola, admissions@globalcitizenyear.org
g lo b alc itizeny ea r.o r g/a c a d emy
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
EMILY WEAVER
COOL FACT Global Citizen Year alumni moderate the Leadership in Action Speaker Series, intimate
I knew it was important for me to take a year out and
discussions that have featured Melinda Gates, DeRay
have the time to focus inwards and truly get to know
McKesson, Seth Godin, Julie Ly thcott-Haims, and over
myself before making big decisions about the future.
20 other luminaries!
I found Global Citizen Year Academy and it was like nothing else I’d seen anywhere online. The empowering focus on leadership and units centred on identity stood out as the perfect way to spend my time. It led
TUITION $500 - $5,000 (sliding scale model) FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships,
me to truly connect with my classmates, they knew more about me than most and it caused a super open
Payment Plans available
friendship to form in the quickest amount of time. For
COLLEGE CREDIT No APPLICATION Priorit y: December 15,
teens looking at gap year programs, I think it’s really important to truly think about what you’re looking to
Final: January 15
get out of this time and consider this in your approach.
START DATE February 22, 2021 SESSION LENGTH 12 weeks STUDENT PER CL ASS 19 HOUSING Virtual DESTINATIONS None - Virtual INTERESTS Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Communit y Service,
Request More Info:
Environment /Conservation, Leadership
www.teenlife.com/request-gap 14
HIGH MOUNTAIN INSTITUTE Spend a semester exploring the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Greater Canyonlands of Utah, vast deserts of Arizona, and the impressive geology of Chilean Patagonia. You’ll go into great depth to advance your backcountry wilderness skills while studying pressing environmental issues and participating in real-world conservation service work. Highlights include:
• Learning and practicing backpacking, rock-climbing and backcountry skiing skills. • Investigating
pressing conservation issues in the United States public land management
system while working with service partners to protect and restore these wild places.
• Planning and executing a student-led expedition in the labyrinthine canyons of Utah. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Claire Sutton, csutton@hminet.org
h min e t .o r g/h mi - g a p
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
MAYA
My semester with HMI was one of the most
COOL FACT The High Mountain Institute is
fulfilling and empowering experiences of my
located in Leadville, Colorado; the nation’s highest
life. What once seemed so daunting- living in
incorporated city at 10,200 feet!
the backcountry for weeks at a time- quickly became comfortable and fun, thanks in large part to the wonderful instructors. I took a gap year to redefine what ‘education’ means to me, and my experience in this regard at HMI was
TUITION $16,400 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships,
everything I could have hoped for and more. We learned deeply about places while in them, talked
Payment Terms, Need-based financial aid
about conservation and wilderness not as some
COLLEGE CREDIT Yes APPLICATION Spring: December 15, Fall: July 15
far off concepts but as ideas with real, visible implications for how we lived while in the field.
START DATE February, March, September SESSION LENGTH 80 days STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 4:1 HOUSING Tents DESTINATIONS The American West (Colorado, Utah, Arizona) and Chilean Patagonia
Request More Info:
INTERESTS Adventure/ Travel, Communit y
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Service, Environment /Conservation, Leadership 15
MASA ISR AEL JOURNEY Masa Gap Year programs offer college-bound high school graduates a year of valuable life experience before college, with Israel providing the perfect environment for them to explore their interests, identity, and future steps. Through a combination of academic coursework, volunteering, traveling, and an immersive experience in Israeli society, participants return home with the life skills they need to make the most out of their college experience.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT Sara Haston, programs@masaisrael.org
m as aisr a el .o r g/g a p - y ea r STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT
Par ticipants can choose from any number of
life-changing programs designed for Jewish high school graduates looking for a productive time out before diving into college: high-tech to t hear ts, Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and ever y thing in between. Masa Israel Journey is the international gateway bringing Jewish young adults from all over the world to experience the wonder of Israel with tailor-made expeditions lasting 2-10 months.
ABIGAIL WINOGR AD Masa Israel’s Leadership Program has one semester of volunteering, with leadership training and fascinating seminars scattered throughout the year to aid our understanding of the countr y and ourselves. We got the authority to craft our year the way we wanted to and
TUITION $5,000 - $30,000 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships COLLEGE CREDIT Yes APPLICATION Rolling
really take charge of our lives. I absolutely felt like a more confident, compassionate, and intelligent person by the end of
START DATE January, February, March,
the program.
April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
SESSION LENGTH 5-10 months HOUSING Homestay, Dorms, Tents DESTINATIONS Israel INTERESTS Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Communit y Service,
Request More Info:
Environment /Conservation, Language,
www.teenlife.com/request-gap
Leadership, Performing & Visual Arts, STEM 16
THE SCHOOL OF THE NEW YORK TIMES At The School of The New York Times, students interact with some of the world’s leading thinkers who are covering the important issues of our time across global affairs, politics, technology, arts & humanities and more. Our Gap Year students emerge with an expanded worldview, an appreciation of other cultures, a sharp sense of perspective on a wide range of topics and strong critical thinking and communication skills that will prepare them for college, career and lifelong success.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT 646- 438-7269 / info@nytedu.com
ny t e du .c o m/g a p - y ea r
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
ADRIANA RIO
COOL FACT
The school’s facult y is comprised of New York
Times journalists and other industr y exper ts who are thought leaders in their f ields. Each week uses sections of the newspaper to dive deeply into an impor tant social, cultural or global topic to help students deepen their understanding of the world, widen their horizons and give them greater clarit y about their personal goals and career aspirations.
The idea of planning my own gap year was quite daunting, which is why I started looking for programs that matched my interests and goals. When I discovered The School of The New York Times, I didn’t hesitate for a moment to apply, because it was clear that this program would offer a wide range of subjects combined with an international classroom. It proved to be an eye opening and life
TUITION $7,500 and up FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships COLLEGE CREDIT No APPLICATION Rolling
changing experience!
START DATE February, September SESSION LENGTH 6 or 12 weeks STUDENT PER PROGR AM 25 HOUSING Dorms or Virtual DESTINATIONS New York Cit y and Online
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INTERESTS Academics, Career Exploration, Communit y Service, Leadership 17
SOTHEBY’S INSTITUTE OF ART Built around the unrivaled access of Sotheby’s Institute of Art, the Gap program invites curious students to explore London and the art world. Offered as 6 -week and 12-week terms, including hybrid and face-to-face options, the program is ideal for students who are passionate about the wider arts and want to embark on a journey of self-discovery and cultural immersion.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT precollege@sia.edu
s o th eby sins titu t e.c o m/lo n d o n/p r e - c o lle g e/g a p - y ea r
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
ELISA ROSSETTO London is a vibrant city, full of life
TUITION £7,450 - £19,950 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships COLLEGE CREDIT No APPLICATION
and opportunities. It definitely is the city where you need to be if you want to build a career in the art world. London has been crucial to
Fall 2021 Deadline: July 12, 2021
me and has given me so much. First
Spring 2022 Deadline: November 29, 2021
with the art and business courses,
START DATE February, March,
then with the amazing people I
September, November
have been able to work with. I have
SESSION LENGTH 6 or 12 weeks
learned so much thanks to the constant exposure to art events,
STUDENT PER PROGR AM 25
exhibitions, galleries, and museums.
HOUSING Dorms
In London, every day is different and there is a new opportunity from
DESTINATIONS London
which you can learn something.
INTERESTS Arts, Business &
I will never get tired of it.
Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration
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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS ABROAD (APA)
a p a p a r is .c o m/p r o g r a m/p a r is - g a p - y e a r
The artisanal traditions of the French are known the world over: learn firsthand the histories of these crafts and how makers and shopkeepers continue their legacy while rapidly improving your French language skills. With renowned support from APA, the Gap Year program implements general and business French language study into the vibrant on-site, hands-on learning of the French savoir-faire, art history, and political science fields. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Monika Markley, mmarkley@apaparis.com
TUITION: $14,400 - $15,700
SESSION LENGTH: 3 months
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 10:1
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
HOUSING: Homestay, Dorms
APPLICATION: Rolling
DESTINATIONS: Paris, France
START DATE: March, September
INTERESTS: Academic, Language
CARPE DIEM EDUCATION
c a r p e die m e d u c a tio n .o r g
Carpe Diem Education provides students an opportunity to explore some of the most fascinating regions on Earth, each offering a unique culturally immersive experience. Through an educational curriculum designed to challenge perspectives, enrich cross-cultural understanding, and inspire personal growth, students reignite their passion for learning. We strive to offer affordable gap year programs and make them accessible to all interested students. Scholarships, payment plans, and college credit are available! ADMISSIONS CONTACT Anne Koenning, anne@carpediemeducation.org
TUITION: $11,900 - $26,275
HOUSING: Homestay, Dorms, Tents
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships, Payment Terms
DESTINATIONS: Hawaii, Arizona, Italy & Greece, Spain
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
& Morocco, the South Pacific (Fiji, Australia and New Zealand), Central America (Costa Rica, Guatemala and
APPLICATION: Rolling
Roatán), South America (Ecuador and Peru), Southeast
START DATE: February, September
Asia (Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam) and India
SESSION LENGTH: 3-month semesters or the
INTERESTS: Adventure/ Travel, Career Exploration,
Latitudes Year (2 semesters)
Communit y Service, Environment /Conservation,
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 6:1
Language, Leadership
Request More Info:
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CET ACADEMIC PROGRAMS c e t a c a d e mic p r o g r a m s .c o m/g a p - y e a r
Ready to build self-confidence, problem-solving skills, and a global perspective? Get top-tier language instruction and take your skills in Arabic, Chinese, Italian, or Japanese to new levels. Develop valuable professional experience with an internship at an organization in China, Jordan, or Vietnam. With Gap at CET, you have access to college-level academics, local connections, and opportunities for personal development through immersive and engaging programs with dedicated staff supporting you every step of the way. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Brian Wiehr, cet@cetacademicprograms.com
TUITION: $1,995 - $15,990
HOUSING: Homestay, Dorms, Apartments
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships, Payment Terms
STUDENT PER PROGR AM: Varies by program
COLLEGE CREDIT: Optional
DESTINATIONS: China, Italy, Japan, Jordan,
APPLICATION: Varies by program
Vietnam, Virtual
START DATE: January, February, June, August, September
INTERESTS: Academic, Adventure/Travel, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Language
SESSION LENGTH: Janterm (5 weeks), Summer (9 weeks), Semester (12 - 17 weeks)
COLLEGE YEAR IN ATHENS (CYA)
c y a t h e n s .o r g
“Know Thyself ” while exploring Greece, volunteering for a worthy cause, and adventuring on cultural immersion. CYA (est.1962) is now offering two opportunities for Gap Year students: those who are passionate about antiquity will benefit from the “Archaeological Field Work: Excavation, Workshops and Digital Technologies” whereas there is “Understanding Activism, Diversity, and Equity: the example of Greece” for students interested in learning more about those issues. The experience may be preparing students for the challenges of two rapidly changing fields, but the skills acquired can also be used in a number of other fields from computer science to fine arts. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Hailey Lovett, gapyear@cyathens.org
TUITION: $9,950
STUDENTS PER PROGR AM: 5 to 16
FINANCIAL AID: Not Available
HOUSING: Student Apartments
COLLEGE CREDIT: Optional
DESTINATIONS: Greece
APPLICATION: Rolling
INTERESTS: Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Career
START DATE: February, September
Exploration, Communit y Service, Environment / Conservation, Language, Leadership
SESSION LENGTH: 10 weeks
Request More Info:
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DOWNWEST SEMESTERS d o w nw e s t s e m e s t e r s .c o m
DownWest inspires and educates the next generation of leaders through thoughtful outdoor adventures rooted in the stories, histories, mountains, rivers, and deserts of the West. Hike, backpack, raft, bike tour, and engage in service projects in the Southwest on two- to five-week trips. Engage in discussions and readings with your peers and DownWest instructors as you challenge yourself to grow both personally and as a leader, while learning about public lands management and wilderness conservation. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Alec Nor ton, alec@downwestsemesters.com
TUITION: $3,650 - $8,395
HOUSING: Tents
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 5:1
COLLEGE CREDIT: No
DESTINATIONS: Trips throughout the Southwest,
APPLICATION: Rolling
including Colorado, Utah, and Arizona
START DATE: January, March, April, September,
INTERESTS: Adventure/ Travel, Environment / Conservation, Leadership
October, November
SESSION LENGTH: 2-5 weeks
DYNAMY INTERNSHIP YEAR d y n a my.o r g
Dynamy is a domestic gap program for students ages 17-22 who are interested in exploring and discovering their future career paths.
Students will work with an advisor to select from 100+ different internship
opportunities throughout Worcester, MA . In conjunction with their internship, students will develop independent living skills through apartment living. Additional benefits include personal and college advising and optional college seminars through Clark University. Students at Dynamy gain real world and real life experiences that will prepare them for college, a career and beyond! ADMISSIONS CONTACT admissions@dynamy.org
TUITION: One semester ( fall or spring)- $15,450;
SESSION LENGTH: One Semester or One Academic Year
Full year ( fall and spring)- $29,400
HOUSING: Apartments
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 43:11
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
DESTINATIONS: Worcester, Massachusetts
APPLICATION: Rolling
INTERESTS: Arts, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career
START DATE: January, September
Exploration, Environmentalism / Conservation, STEM
Request More Info:
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NATIV COLLEGE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN ISRAEL w w w. n a ti v.o r g
Nativ, USCJ’s gap year program for Jewish high school graduates, is dedicated to creating and inspiring the Conservative Jewish leaders of tomorrow. Nativ, which means “path” in Hebrew, provides a unique opportunity to explore new directions on the journey to becoming a Jewish adult. From September to May Nativ participants are immersed in the rich and diverse society of Israel, exploring the land and enjoying a fulfilling Conservative Jewish. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Deborah Shafran, Nativ@uscj.org
TUITION: $27,300
HOUSING: Dorms
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 15:1
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
DESTINATIONS: Jerusalem, Tiberias, Karmiel, Yemin
APPLICATION: Rolling
Orde Youth Village
START DATE: September
INTERESTS: Academic, Language
SESSION LENGTH: 9 months
RALEIGH INTERNATIONAL r a leig hin t e r n a tio n a l .o r g/vo lu n t e e r- g a p - y e a r
We believe young people have the power to change the world. So, we run overseas, sustainable volunteering programs to ignite young people’s passion for change and equip them with the skills, networks and confidence to become youth leaders. Our programs take place three times a year in Nepal and Costa Rica and last either 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 weeks. Now is the time for action; change is coming because tomorrow’s too late. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Christin Prustel, info@raleighinternational.org
TUITION: $3,400 - $5,500
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 1:6
FINANCIAL AID: Not Available
HOUSING: Homestay, Dorms, Camping
COLLEGE CREDIT: No
DESTINATIONS: Costa Rica & Nepal
APPLICATION: Rolling
INTERESTS: Adventure/ Travel, Career Exploration,
START DATE: February, March, April, June, July,
Communit y Service, Environment /Conservation, Language, Leadership
September, October
SESSION LENGTH: 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 weeks
Request More Info:
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SEMESTER AT SEA w w w. s e m e s t e r a t s e a .o r g
With the world as your classroom and more than 50 years of experience, Semester at Sea integrates multiple-country study, interdisciplinary coursework, and hands-on field experience for meaningful engagement in the global community. Over a 100-day voyage on a floating college, students select academic courses from 20 – 25 fields of study that are integrated with relevant field classes in 10+ countries, allowing for an experiential, comparative education that is truly global. Voyagers will explore 10-12 destinations across 4 continents and travel 20,000- 25,000 Nautical Miles. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Kallan Picha, admission@semesteratsea.org
HOUSING: Homestay, Dorms
TUITION: $26,874 - $32,874 FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
DESTINATIONS: Morocco, Cabo Verde, Ghana,
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
South Africa, Mauritius, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore,
APPLICATION: Rolling
St. Helena (UK ), Brazil, Spain, Ireland
START DATE: January, September
INTERESTS: Academic, Arts, Adventure/Travel, Business
SESSION LENGTH: One semester
& Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Community
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 550:25:00
Service, Environmentalism / Conservation, Leadership
UPENN: COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES lp s .u p e n n .e d u/s t u d e n t s/g a p - y e a r- s t u d e n t s
Penn’s College of Liberal and Professional Studies (LPS) offers non-degree programs online for bright and ambitious students who know that transitional times call for nontraditional measures. Created by Ivy League faculty and expert practitioners, our non-degree programs are designed to be experienced fully online. Wherever you are in the world, Penn LPS can help you redefine the gap year. ADMISSIONS CONTACT lps@sas.upenn.edu
TUITION: Varies
SESSION LENGTH: Varies
FINANCIAL AID: Payment Terms
DESTINATIONS: Online
COLLEGE CREDIT: Depends on the program
INTERESTS: Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Communit y
APPLICATION: Rolling
Service, Leadership
START DATE: Year-Round
Request More Info:
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VANGUARD GAP YEAR w h e a t o n .e d u/v a n g u a r d
Vanguard, the gap year of Wheaton College, is a year of hands-on education and leadership development that will prepare you for college and life. This experience will help you discover your unique purpose and how you can live it out in light of the Great Commission. Whether you’re academically-apt or trade-minded, outdoor experts or entry-level hobbyists, questioning or firm in your Christian faith, Vanguard serves as an incredible way to bridge high school and college. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Laura Elliott, laura.elliott@wheaton.edu
TUITION: $18,500
STUDENT PER PROGR AM: 24
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships, Payment Terms
HOUSING: Dorms
COLLEGE CREDIT: Yes
DESTINATIONS: Varies by year
APPLICATION: Rolling
INTERESTS: Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Communit y
START DATE: September
Service, Leadership
SESSION LENGTH: 8 months
Request More Info:
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CENTER FOR INTERIM PROGR AMS Founded in 1980, the Center for Interim Programs is the first independent gap year counseling organization in the USA . We help individuals of all ages find complementar y experiences to formal education and work. Our Gap Year Association accredited expert counselors make customized referrals from an extensive database of vetted programs and placements worldwide, and are keynote and panel speakers at NAFSA , NACAC, HECA , IECA , GYA , Gap Year Fairs, and high schools nationwide.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT Holly Bull, hollybull@interimprograms.com
in t er im p r o g r a m s .c o m STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT
ADAM DW YER
Interim has helped over
The Center for Interim Programs gave me
8,000 students with their gap year plans and
the support and guidance to formulate
our ser vice is good for a lifetime!
an outstanding gap year - a year that was transformative and pivotal. I was able to participate in opportunities and programs that I had never imagined I could. Without the help of Holly Bull
TUITION $2,800 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships APPLICATION Rolling
and her staff, I could not have had such a life changing year. The ser vices and placement advice are invaluable and I have recommended the Center for
START DATE Any time SESSION LENGTH Open-Ended
Interim Programs to all my friends who may be considering gap years.
STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 1:1 DESTINATIONS Worldwide INTERESTS Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Communit y Service, Environment /Conservation, Language, Leadership, Performing & Visual Arts, STEM
Request More Info: www.teenlife.com/request-gap 25
J2GUIDES J2Guides is a professional gap year counseling service that puts students at the center of the gap year planning process. Co-founders Jane and Jason Sarouhan are nationally accredited gap year counselors who have spent the last 25 years working with young adults in experiential education. If you are looking for personalized and quality program referrals, affordable expert advice, and compassionate mentorship, J2Guides is the right place for you.
ADMISSIONS CONTACT Jane & Jason Sarouhan, info@j2guides.com
j2guid e s .c o m STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:
COOL FACT
ZACK STONE
J2Guides is spending
Working with J2Guides was the best
the 2020-2021 academic year living in
choice I made for my gap year. The
a conver ted van and visiting students
Explore the Gap education helped me
and programs all over the U.S. to help
define my goals and budget, which
spotlight the American gap year!
made me feel much more confident in the planning process. In Plan the Gap, Jane and Jason gave me an amazing list of options that fit all of my parameters! They are enthusiastic guides who clearly love their work, know tons of
TUITION $600 - $2,000 FINANCIAL AID Grants/Scholarships APPLICATION Rolling
quality programs, and derive joy from helping students. I can’t imagine having done this without J2!
START DATE Any time SESSION LENGTH Any leng th STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO 1:1 DESTINATIONS United States and Overseas
INTERESTS Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Business & Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Communit y
Request More Info:
Service, Environment /Conservation,
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Language, Leadership, Performing & Visual Arts, STEM 26
TAYLOR THE GAP t ay lo r t h e g a p.c o m
Taylor The Gap, a personalized gap year consulting service in Boulder, Colorado, is operated by GYA accredited Marion Taylor. Marion’s unique perspective is based on her thirty years of social work, her lifetime of personal gap experiences, her parenting of four gap year children, and her ongoing research and vetting of gap programs. She served on the Board and various committees of GYA from 2018 -20 and speaks at USA Gap Fairs, at colleges and at high schools in the West. ADMISSIONS CONTACT Marion Taylor MSW, mariontaylor560@gmail.com
TUITION: $2,000 - $2,400
DESTINATIONS: Worldwide
FINANCIAL AID: Grants/Scholarships
INTERESTS: Academic, Adventure/ Travel, Business
APPLICATION: Rolling
& Entrepreneurship, Career Exploration, Communit y Service, Environment /Conservation, Language,
START DATE: Any time
Leadership, Performing & Visual Arts, STEM
SESSION LENGTH: Open-ended STUDENT TO ADVISOR R ATIO: 1:1
Request More Info: www.teenlife.com/request-gap
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