Hey all! I’m a high school senior currently considering whether or not I want to take a gap year before my freshman year of college. I was just accepted into my top college (!) and I am, obviously, pretty dang excited about attending:) However, I’ve always just assumed I would defer a year no matter where I got in and take a gap year to travel/work/volunteer, etc. Now though, I’m not so sure–I am just pretty ready to be IN college, not just out of high school. I seem to only still be considering it because of all the amazing benefits and the enriching experience it would be, but I am also worried about the downsides: I am old for my grade (I turn 19 in August), so if I took a year off before starting college I would be 20 years old my freshman year, and I’m concerned the maturity gap might be an issue for me in terms of enjoying my time at college I pretty much know all the upsides to taking a gap year, but I was wondering if anyone has any insight/opinions about the whole concept. Is it realistic to think about doing something AFTER college like peace corps or isaAID? If you have taken/know anyone who took a gap year, how did you/they decide to do so and decide what to do? Thank you insanely much, insight super appreciated 
Probably not the best place to ask for this type of stuff. Most of the things here are summer programs during high school and not after. I would consult reddit or something like that @chloeshrager. Best of luck!
PS Which college? Congrats on that acceptance! @chloeshrager
@chloeshrager my S is currently on a Gap Year
Feel free to ask me
I know kids who have taken gap semesters during college rather than after high school. Just tossing that out if you are feeling super excited about starting right away.
If you really want to go to your top college choice, I say go for it! If you’re planning to go to graduated school, take a gap year in between undergrad and grad. I’ve actually been advised bty grad students to take a semester off after undergrad graduation.