Gap years have become increasingly popular over the last couple of decades, with many students opting to postpone college for a few semesters, stretch their wings and experience learning outside of the education system.
THE RISE OF THE GAP YEAR IN AMERICA
It’s now estimated that annually 8,000 U.S. students take a gap year – a figure that’s been growing rapidly over recent years with educators recognizing the benefits of structured time spent out of the classroom, and support from parents growing.
STRUGGLING TO DECIDE?
It’s very clear to me just how daunting a decision to leave home for a whole year must be. If you’re unsure about whether to embark on a year out, you’re going to find the following facts and figures very interesting indeed. With any luck, they’ll go some way to setting your mind at ease.
An estimated 1.6 million students volunteer during their gap year, with many partaking in programs with a gap year organization.
AND NOW, THE STATISTICS…
Amazing Fact #1: American universities say that students who took a gap year achieve 23% higher grades than students who went straight to college.
Hard to believe, right? Studies actually suggest that taking it easy for a while after high school will aid academic performance in the long run. Perhaps the following is an indication as to why…
Amazing Fact #2: 60% of gap year students said that they took their academics more seriously after taking a year out from education.
…and if that wasn’t enough…
Amazing Fact #3: 60% of gap year students said that a year out helped them decide their major and realize their future career direction.
…and…
Amazing Fact #4: 90% of students who take a gap year return to college within a year.
Conclusive evidence, then, that having an awesome time after high school doesn’t make you a dropout. In fact, it will improve your focus when you return to education and help you better understand what you might like to study. Better yet, it’s also highly likely to improve your grades.
And it gets better, because there’s even evidence that the positive effects will stretch way beyond college graduation:
Amazing Fact #5: 88% of people who took a year out said that they thought their gap year added to their employability.
And finally, for those considering flying solo – a word of advice…
Amazing Fact #6: Only 30% of gap year students choose to travel alone.
To put it another way, an overwhelming 70% of gap year participants decided to travel in a group, and the majority of those enrolling in a program offered by an approved gap year organization. If you’re new to travelling outside of the States, it’s always more sensible and safer to use the services of a recommended, reputable gap year organization. That way, you’ll know that your destination and activities have been well researched, are expertly led and are conducted in accordance with the highest safety standards.
Did you enjoy these stats on gap years? Click here to learn a little more.
Are you a parent of a potential gap year participant? Check out our page dedicated to you!
Ready to take the first step on life changing journey?
Learn more about how Denver Gap Year can change your life here.
Apply to Denver Gap Year today at: https://www.denvergapyear.com/participant-application
*Copied (w/ light editing) from author Mark Clarkson at wheretovolunteer.org.
SOURCES
http://www.americangap.org/data-benefits.php
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/05/gap-year-advice_n_3552333.html
http://www.theleap.co.uk
http://www.oregonlive.com/kiddo/index.ssf/2013/08/gap_years_and_high_school_seni.html
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2015783,00.html
http://www.milkround.com/recruiters/