I was recently accepted into the CWRU college of engineering and I was wondering if it would be possible to take a gap semester before attending so that I may learn a programming language, get certified in 3d modelling software and volunteer at a local cat shelter.
Makes no sense, as you can do all of that in Cleveland. Just get started on your education.
I would contact your admissions counselor and ask them.
https://admission.case.edu/connect-with-us/meet-your-admission-counselor/
However, you can take a programming class freshman year and volunteer as well.