<p>I'm considering a gap year. Although I don't yet have a solid plan, I think I would like to work with humane society/animal rescue group, take courses in French at a community college, and perhaps do some traveling or WOOFing. I feel a bit exhausted from high school and from the whole stressful college application process, so I think a year to breath might help with that. </p>
<p>My only (MAJOR) concern is that I would fall behind academically. I know that if I do take a gap year I would continue to read a lot and journal almost every day (two things I do a lot anyway), but I'm worried that I would lose academic skills like paper writing, etc. By the way, I plan to major in history, psychology or gender studies, so math isn't a huge issue (although I am a bit worried about that as well.) </p>
<p>My question is, do you think lots of reading, French classes, and consistent journaling would be enough to preserve academic skills for a year? I would defer admission for a year, so concern about reapplication is not an issue. </p>
<p>I'd really appreciate any comments on this issue!</p>