<p>I'm a junior in high school, and because of personal experiences, I've been thinking that taking a gap year would be better for me.</p>
<p>How does it work? Do I still apply to college my senior year of high school and then ask for a gap year upon admission? Or do I just not apply until the following year after senior year? I'm a bit confused.</p>
<p>Also, will my high school still have my transcript a year after I graduate from high school? </p>
<p>What are some activities you suggest be experienced during a gap year. Or maybe, gap years, as the prospect of joining the Peace Corps really appeals to me.</p>
<p>"Do I still apply to college my senior year of high school and then ask for a gap year upon admission? Or do I just not apply until the following year after senior year? I'm a bit confused."</p>
<p>You can do either. It's easier to do the former. Private colleges, particularly the elite ones, are most likely to grant a gap year -- if you have reasonable plans for it.</p>
<p>I think that you need to be older to be in the Peace Corps, though there are some other service abroad programs (that cost money) that you probably could participate in. Google to find some.</p>
<p>Americorps, which my S, 19, did during his post h.s. gap year, accepts people your age, and provides excellent opportunities to provide community service in the U.S. Check their website. It also provides a living stipend and about a $4,700 scholarship to use toward college.</p>