<p>I've been thinking more and more about taking a year off from school and not enrolling as a frosh anywhere. I would really like to get involved in some service/other legitimate activities. How would this impact my chances at a school (particularly an ivy/top LAC) if I were to reapply as a freshman?</p>
<p>It would help. From their web site: "Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrollment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way - provided they do not enroll in a degree-granting program at another college. Deferrals for two-year obligatory military service are also granted. Each year, between 50 and 70 students defer their matriculation to the College. </p>
<p>For more thoughts on the advantages of taking time off before college, read the article below “Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation” written by the William R. Fitzsimmons, Dean of Admissions, Harvard College, Marlyn E. McGrath, Director of Admissions, Harvard College, and Charles Ducey, Adjunct Lecturer in Psychology, Harvard Graduate School of Education."</p>
<p>Also take a look at “The Gap Year Advantage” by Haigler and Nelson. Pros and cons, logistics, tons of options, and info on how to finance it. You can order it online.</p>
<p>I think it is important to do something in your gap year that demonstrates your willingness to work hard, take risks, and learn… something that takes some initiative and creativity on your part. I know a young woman who was waitlisted at a few Ivies. She took a gap year during which she participated in a very expensive international volunteer program, skied,and travelled. I think her gap year experience screamed “privileged.” She ended up doing worse the second time around.</p>
<p>^ My family doesn’t have the money to do anything like that. 
I was thinking about applying for an internship for a senator, volunteering, and working. But I’m not sure if that’s good enough. Thoughts?</p>