(I accidentally posted this in college search, so I thought this forum might be more appropriate)
I already know that I will want to take a gap year before starting college (I plan to apply to college during senior year anyway), and I intend to spend at least a good part of that year working on a humanitarian project in a field that I care deeply about and that will be strongly emphasized throughout my application. When I write my college apps (next year), assuming I am still committed to these plans, would it be a good or bad idea to mention my gap year plan in my initial application (as opposed to leaving it out initially and then proposing it after I commit to a college, which from what I’ve heard seems to be the standard method)? Including it seems like it would help legitimize my aspirations in the field, but I’m just concerned that top colleges might be hesitant to admit me under the premise of definitely taking a year off (especially given that these day each successive incoming class seems to be increasingly selective). Would I like be rescinded then if I didn’t follow through with those plans? It just seems like there’s probably a good reason I’ve never heard of anyone doing this, despite knowing so many people who seem to know exactly what they want to do years ahead. Has anyone tried doing this and would or would not recommend? Any input would be appreciated, thanks
First things first- check out the colleges you plan on/ hope to apply to and find out where they stand on
gap years. Harvard is very supportive for instance, but as you known the chances of admissions there are miniscule at best. A Call to the admissions office or a conversation with the Admissions counselor for you area might be the best way to find out. Some may be totally supportive, others may not encourage gap years.
PUBLIC U’s or colleges may not allow gap years.
So do some research.
You wont be rescinded if you change your plans because a commitment to taking a gap year is not a requirement for admission.
I would hesitate to mention your gap year plans in your application.
But instead I would let you passion and commitment for the field shine through in your essay.
@broadwaybabyyy that sounds amazing! Best of luck in all your endeavors!
However, although i definitely plan to take a gap year, it’s very important to me to get into college during senior year (and then defer enrollment), so that I can spend my whole gap year doing what I actually want to do and not just trying to look impressive to colleges.
My question is, when I apply to colleges during senior year, should I mention my plans for the following year to them if they would add more depth to my application? On one hand, it would help me legitimize my interest in a field that is very important to me and that would make me stand out to colleges. On the other hand, colleges might simply not accept me if they know for sure that I want to take a gap year. What would you do in this situation? Thanks!
@nac7890 yes, very smart choice! Last year (senior year) I applied to schools to see where I would get accepted academically. That way, I would know which schools I would be academically accepted to, and then have comfort in knowing half of the stress is already done with! I wish you the best of luck. And not true! College admissions (from my experience) have seen my gap year in a positive light, because I told them how POSITIVE it was for me, and how it was the RIGHT decision for ME. If you go into an interview with an admissions officer or faculty member and you talk negatively about your gap year, the person talking to you will only view YOUR gap year as a negative. You need to think positive! I’m sure great things are headed your way! If you have any other questions, need advice, or just want tips on what to do on your gap year, please don’t hesitate to ask! Please PM anytime! I would love to help
