For many people, winter marks a time of holidays, family vacations and New Year’s resolutions. It is a season of traditions that we participate in year after year. But as we engage in our cultural, societal and or family rituals, how often do we pause to wonder how a certain custom became established, what its value is or why it is important? Might these traditions feel that much more meaningful and personal if we considered their relevancy to us, as individuals?

The college application process is no exception.

It is often the norm to participate in the custom of applying to college without pausing to ask “why?” Continuing on to college right out of high school is the right and reasonable choice for many, many students. But for others, there may be more meaning found in choosing and creating a not-so-new tradition of gap time. Neither is right or wrong, better or worse. The real key to success in this or any process is being an active participant, rather than a passive one.

If you are currently a high school senior who is feeling uninspired by the college process, burnt-out by school, curious about the world, eager to pursue interests or develop new skills, a gap year may be a far more fulfilling pursuit than college at this time. Asking yourself ‘why apply to college now?’ is a great start to bringing both curiosity and responsibility to this process. To generate real answers and ownership it is critical to dig even deeper. Consider: What hesitations do I have about going to college? Why am I interested in taking gap time? What do I envision doing? What are my goals? What are my concerns? What is my budget?

A well-planned gap experience is a serious endeavor that requires planning, personal responsibility and often applications and program fees as well. Once you have explored some of your reasons or goals for gap time, take some of these initial steps: Talk to your family. Meet with your college counselor. Finish and submit your college applications. Inquire with each school about its deferral policy. Begin researching structured opportunities, programs or placements. Speak to both staff and alumni of those programs. Consult with a gap year counselor.

Asking general questions of the traditions we habitually engage in this time of year may reveal historic or humorous roots. Yet we may discover even more value and connection to them when we seek to understand their significance to us on a current and personal level. As the New Year and the traditional setting of hopes, goals and resolutions is upon us, you have the great opportunity to bring curiosity into custom, responsibility into choice, and intention into the next year of your life, be it college, a gap year or beyond!

Jane Sarouhan is a Vice President at The Center for Interim Programs. As a passionate educator and experienced administrator, she is committed to serving the needs and interests of young adults, parents and fellow professionals as they explore their own exciting next steps in life’s education.

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