<p>Alright, so I'm a senior currently, and taking a gap year has crossed my mind several times. I'm debating whether to take one or not. Reasons:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Messed up first quarter of Senior year. I can raise my GPA and rank by a lot if I stick with a gap year and use my complete senior year grades. If I apply to schools now, I should probably say goodbye to my chances at reach schools (or any chance for that matter)</p></li>
<li><p>Raise SATs. Get higher scores, simple enough.</p></li>
<li><p>Work/Intern in a company related to an area I'm considering to pursue. Either tech startup or volunteering/teaching</p></li>
<li><p>Travel. I'd like to travel. I've worked each summer for the past 6 years.</p></li>
<li><p>Need a break, I feel burnt out.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>I don't want to give up on my top choice, and I think a gap year would be a great way to strengthen my profile, learn more skills, experience new things, have some serious self reflection and then reapply the following year (so, next fall).</p>
<p>So, is it worth it?</p>