Types of Gap Years
There are a wide variety of opportunities for Gap years:
- Global and Cultural Programs
- Outdoor Wilderness Programs
- Conservation and Environmental Programs
- Sports Programs
- Paid Work Programs
- Internship/Career-Oriented Programs
- Academic Programs
- College Transition Programs
- Travel/Exploration on Own
Planning to attend college? You should still apply and then work with your college to request an admissions deferral.
The Complete Guide to the Gap YearCall Number: College_CareerISBN: 9780470425268This is the go-to book for anyone considering a year to re-charge, to follow a passion, to become immersed in another culture, or to find their love of learning again. It includes everything a student, parent, or guidance counselor would want to know about the gap year; including what a gap year is, what it is not, and why it can have a positive impact on a young life.
- Gap Year Radio Podcast800 episodes of gap year interviews
- Gap Year ProvidersCompiled by Gap Year Association
The Big TripCall Number: College_CareerISBN: 1743607881This comprehensive companion, now in its third edition, provides essential pretrip planning advice, regional overviews with maps and itineraries, and practical resources for finding work abroad. Now in full colour packed with inspirational images.
Joining AmeriCorpsCall Number: College_CareerISBN: 9798985093704If are you interested in learning more about AmeriCorps, either for yourself or for a young adult in your life, then this book is for you! Joining AmeriCorps is a comprehensive guide helping readers answer the following questions: What is AmeriCorps? Should I join AmeriCorps? How do I join AmeriCorps? How do I make the most of my AmeriCorps experience? How do I prepare for life after AmeriCorps? Tracking the personal journeys of four diverse AmeriCorps members, this book presents information in an accessible way that is relatable to readers from different walks of life.
The Parish by Call Number: Graphic Novel FIC SMIISBN: 9781940761152More than a year after hurricane Katrina, St. Bernard Parish is still just a shell. Its people scattered, its buildings condemned. But now Leo and his fellow Americorps members have come down south to rebuild.Leo signed up to change the world, but ends up running the newsletter. His friends Snave, Cirelle, and Davy have equally unglamorous jobs. Frustrated, they chafe against authority and each other. Only Kiley, the girl Leo pines after, spends her days saving houses from ruin. Join Leo and his friends as they work, sweat, and love in a town longing for renewal. Inspired by the author's own experience in the aftermath of Katrina
Walking to ListenISBN: 9781632867001A memoir of one young man's coming of age on a journey across America--told through the stories of the people of all ages, races, and inclinations he meets along the way. Life is fast, and I've found it's easy to confuse the miraculous for the mundane, so I'm slowing down, way down, in order to give my full presence to the extraordinary that infuses each moment and resides in every one of us.
Service Programs
Benefits can vary depending on the AmeriCorp program, some provide health insurance, stipends and cover travel expenses. Most provide scholarships towards college upon completion.
- AmeriCorp State and NationalState and National members can serve individually or in teams, working with public and private organizations to address community needs like education, public safety, and the environment
- AmeriCorps NCCC - National Civilian Conservation CorpsNCCC members serve in teams of 10–14 people for 10 months, working on projects related to education, disaster services, and the environment
- AmeriCorp VistaVolunteers in Service to America (VISTA) members work with public agencies and private non-profit organizations to address community issues like poverty, education, and public health.
- Peace CorpsPeace Corps volunteers generally serve for two years outside of the United States. It also offers benefits and scholarships upon completion.
These are just a few of the organizations that offer service programs for young adults. Before doing any program make sure you thoroughly research it by talking to alumni and program representatives and understand the costs and benefits.
- WWOOFF WorldWide Opportunities on Working FarmsWWOOFing is a way to learn about organic farming and sustainability, while also experiencing a new culture and meeting new people
- WorkawayA platform that allows members to arrange homestays and cultural exchange. Volunteers or "Workawayers", are expected to contribute a pre-agreed amount of time per day in exchange for lodging and food, which is provided by their host.
- Habitat for HumanityGlobal non-profit that focus on helping families build homes.
- Global VolunteersShort term volunteer opportunities. Example of an organization that will require you to cover the costs of volunteering. The benefits is that you have support while traveling, your food, housing, and travel costs are all taken care of so you can focus on the objective.