Across the country, prospective and current college students are anticipating a fall semester. Some are unsure whether they even should continue pursuing a college degree. In June, Fitch Ratings estimated that colleges and universities would see a drop in annual enrollment of 5-20%. Indicating that students have considered taking a gap year. 2020 amidst all the things has now caused a plight to the future of many.
One option being considered by students is a temporary withdrawal from school for a “gap year”. With seven months gone and no clarity, clouds the judgements of the students. This uncertainty has led them to consider doing other things and polishing their skills at home while ensuring both safe and sound mental and physical health. Students who were planning on studying abroad are having to postpone their trips; graduating high school seniors are weighing the pros and cons of beginning their college experience with online classes; and young people everywhere are wondering if they should consider a gap year.
According to a recent survey, up to 40 percent of students nationwide are seriously considering taking a gap year. With unprecedented numbers signaling that they will take a year off, what exactly will they, or should they, do with that time? What is a gap year? These are questions that have been troubling and concerning students and parents across the globe.
Gap years are looking different these days in 2020. Typically, a gap year consists of travel in the form of volunteering, interning, or working overseas, but stay at home orders and travel restrictions are sure to impact where potential gappers can go and what opportunities are available. Making it a “virtual gap year”, a virtual gap year is
Virtual opportunities are on the rise these days. These remote experiences allow students around the world to connect via digital learning technologies, helping to create a sense of community and closeness during a time when we are all physically separated. Virtual gap years are actually an incredible innovation that will most likely lead the industry in the future, as they make the gap year experience accessible to nearly everyone, enabling the unique opportunity to build a global network without having to leave home. The skills you develop in intercultural communication, time management, and initiative will be sure to serve you in whatever comes next.
- Complete a virtual internship.
- Try and online class and virtual courses.
- Learn a new language.
- Start your own blog and some writing experience.
- Recoup both Mental and Physical fitness.
- Start your entrepreneurial journey.
