In this episode of the Parenting Pathway Podcast, we are joined by Family Ministries Pastor Dave Carl, High School Ministry Pastor Nathan Kocurek, and special guest Adam Martin, VP of Operations from Kanakuk’s Link Year program, to discuss the value of a gap year for your teen following high school. This growing trend gives time and significance to kids finding their identity, developing their own foundation of faith, and gaining experience in that first season of living outside their parents’ home.When it comes to their future after high school, young people have a dizzying array of choices and options made available to them since the dawn of the information superhighway. However, with so many choices, anxiety levels increase. What if I make the wrong choice? One way to give young people the time and space to understand their unique purpose and identity as they grow into adulthood is to choose a gap year. A gap year is a time set aside between high school and college or career to gain insight, perspective, and experience. Lots of college admissions counselors are supportive of the idea, as they see the benefits for incoming students. Many official gap year programs exist to bring purpose and structure to this experience, such as Kanakuk’s Link Year program.
Our special guest, Adam Martin, helped start Link Year in its inaugural year and served as the VP of Operations for the first three years. In 2014, he left for a short period of time but returned to his position the spring of 2017. He is excited to be back serving with Link Year to disciple and coach students. Adam has a passion for the value of a gap year and is excited share his experience. Learn a few of the basics about gap years below, and listen to this podcast conversation for further insights that may help you and your student decide which path to take.
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Notes to Parents from Pastor Nathan:
Through the years, I have seen high school graduates go immediately to college or their career and do very well. I have also seen students who return from a gap year absolutely transformed in a way that better prepares them for what’s next. Aubree Bryant, our Middle School Ministry Leader, even married a guy she was with on her gap year (although there are no guarantees of finding true love for all those who go. . . legally, I have to say that.) If you’re not familiar with the gap year concept, you probably have lots of questions. Here are a few that are frequently asked:
What do students do on a gap year?
Gap years exist for different reasons. A Christian gap year is usually related to mentoring, personal and spiritual growth, vocational exploration, biblical education, and missional volunteer service.
Is there a disadvantage for college admissions or a risk of losing scholarships?
Check with the admissions department of the school where your student wants to go. Many offer a deferred enrollment option for gap year students. Each university or college is different, and scholarship provisions vary. Private Christian schools may even offer class credit for a gap year.
Do all gap years require students to live away from home?
Most all gap years include living away from home. One of the main ideas is to develop skills for independent living. Breaks from the gap year program are usually included.
When is the deadline to apply?
For most programs, you will need to apply no later than the beginning of your senior year of high school. In some cases, application may be needed even sooner. Check the website for your specific gap year program.
Is one year too long?
The length of the gap year is a matter of personal preference and the type of program. Gap year programs that emphasize missions usually require a certain amount of training before going into the field, while others follow a course curriculum lasting for a semester or two.
What is the transition like after returning from a gap year?
The struggle is real. Re-entry from an overseas gap year can be especially difficult. Also, adjusting from living in a well-structured daily routine back into almost total flexibility can be challenging. Gap year organizers recognize these difficulties and work the entire year to prepare students for life after gap year. Honestly, it’s the whole reason for going on a gap year in the first place.
How much does it cost?
Each gap year program varies in cost depending on travel, study materials, and living expenses. Some gap year students live with host families, while others maintain an apartment, and still others may live in cabins at a Christian camp.
How do I choose a gap year program or find out more information?
First, know the reason for going on a gap year. Some are geared more for exploring a vocation, others are more geared towards missional service. Next, do the research. We’ve provided a list of gap year programs our students have participated in or that we know a lot about.
