Best Gap Year Activities That Can Add Value To Your Applications

Every year, we work with students who decide to finish their high school education and then focus on evaluating their interests and objectives before applying to a college abroad. In India, people are hesitant to take a gap year because they believe it is a year ‘wasted’. This misconception stems from the fact that instead of starting college immediately after high school, students commence their undergraduate journey a year later. But whether it will be a year wasted or one that is fulfilling relies heavily on how you approach the gap year. Typically, embarking on a gap year is transformative as it helps students discover their true potential and passion with regard to charting the next course of action in college. However, it is crucial to plan the gap year thoughtfully so that it is productive and adds value to the student’s overall profile. A well-planned gap year can certainly be beneficial as it provides you with an opportunity to explore the real world outside the traditional academic setting while fostering a sense of maturity and initiative - attributes that are fundamental to a comprehensive college experience. In this article, we will delve deeper into some of the activities that potential undergraduate applicants to a college abroad can undertake to enhance their application.

Internships and Professional Experience

Often, students wish to understand their course of interest a little more in-depth during their gap year. This is why we recommend undertaking practical work experience through internships or part-time jobs relevant to the intended major. Seeking these kinds of opportunities allows you to work in a professional setting - be it a large-scale corporate or a start-up, it is important to spend a significant portion of your gap year immersing yourself in the real world and demonstrating your commitment to your future goals. Internships also help you develop valuable skills like time management, organisation, teamwork, and multitasking. Since you will have more time on hand, your internship should be at least for 2-3 months. Secondly, the work experience should yield a tangible output or project that can be shared with the colleges you intend to apply to.

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Community Project

Colleges emphasise the importance of community initiatives. In a country like India, there is an abundance of causes that require your attention. Engaging in serving your local community is one of the most impactful activities that you can pursue during your gap year. Rather than simply volunteering at a local organisation, colleges appreciate leadership and initiative. Essentially, that means choosing a cause close to your heart - be it environmental conservation, education or conducting any activities that aid and abate underprivileged communities - and committing to it by persistent efforts. The scale of the project is secondary; what matters is your dedication and perseverance to lead a project that creates a positive change in your local community. You could either work with local NGOs to fix a gap or simply run the entire initiative independently. It is important to document community service on your application as not only does it foster your community but it also hones your problem-solving and leadership skills while instilling a sense of compassion.

Standardised Tests

Another way to boost your application is by supplementing it with a strong SAT/ACT score. In case you didn't get a chance to focus on either of these tests during high school, you should definitely dedicate some time to undertake the SAT/ACT or improve your existing score. Taking full-length tests with proper feedback is crucial to do well in standardised tests and both the SAT/ACT have multiple dates through the year. Ensure you have spent enough time on the prep before actually attempting the test. Documenting a good standardised test score boosts your application to colleges.

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Academic Enrichment

Engaging in academic pursuits during your gap year can demonstrate your commitment to intellectual growth and passion for learning. Consider enrolling in online courses, attending workshops or seminars, or even taking up independent research projects. These activities showcase your dedication to expanding your knowledge base beyond the confines of a traditional classroom setting. Moreover, they allow you to explore potential areas of academic interest and show your readiness to tackle rigorous college coursework. However, it is important to gauge the level and type of course before signing up - ensure it is aligned with your intended field of study and is detailed enough to leave you with insights that can be drawn out in your application.

Learn a New Language

Students from international curriculums usually have to learn a foreign language. During your gap year, you could consider taking that a step further by studying the language at a higher level. If you have not learnt a foreign language, the gap year is a good time to pursue one as it showcases your willingness to challenge yourself while learning something about a different culture.

Passion-Based Projects

While the gap year should be productive in terms of learning and acquiring work experience, do not forget to follow or build on your passions during this time. Colleges evaluate the overall personality of the student so it is worthwhile to show them that you have varied interests. Be it writing a blog, photography, music, dance, or baking - this is the best time to channel your creativity and develop a personal narrative for college applications. Showcasing a passion that you have consistently developed over time goes a long way when it comes to admissions.

Ultimately, it is in your hands whether the gap year will be a fruitful one or not. If planned well, it can help you evolve as you take up various activities across internships, community initiatives and personal projects. These demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a passion for learning. Furthermore, you will acquire some personal clarity when it comes to your future goals and this will ensure you enter college with a resolute mindset. A meaningful gap year can be the key to unlocking exciting opportunities and shaping a successful college experience.

Also Read | Studying Abroad After Class 10: Things To Keep In Mind

The author is an alumna of University of Warwick, UK. As a Manager at OnCourse, Dwisha has worked with several students, helping them acquire placements at top universities in the USA, UK, and Canada. When she's not working, Dwisha can usually be found capturing sunsets, reading fiction, and writing.