<p>I'm interested in possibly going abroad for a year in high school. One thing that worries me however, is how it'll look on my college app. Would this have a negative affect or would colleges see that as a bad thing? I'm also afraid that I'll be missing out on a lot. International relations is something that I'm passionate about but still.....</p>
<p>Going abroad for a year would definitely not be a detriment to your applications; in fact, that sort of experience is something that will set you apart from other applicants. If I were you, I’d go for it!</p>
<p>I see that your username was aptly chosen. If this helps emphasize your passions, and if you’re comfortable with it, then do it! Be yourself; don’t strive for the “ideal” college application. That pressure’s crippling.</p>
<p>I don’t think taking a gap year hurts your college app, but I do hear that it can cause financial aid and scholarship issues.</p>