Gap Year Resources for Parents

Topic: Personal Development
Written By Dr. David Danish

Exploring the idea of a gap year can be an exciting time for both parents and their graduating high schoolers. A gap year offers invaluable experiences through travel, volunteering, learning, and personal growth. Below, you'll find a curated list of resources to help you and your child navigate the plethora of gap year opportunities available. Each resource is categorized for easy reference, complete with a brief description and the full URL.

Gap Year Program Directories

Academic and Personal Development Programs

  • Dynamy
    Location:     Worcester, MA
    Cost: 17K/term/17K/term / 17K/term/35K/year + $1350 X 3 for Clark courses
    Description: Dynamy offers a unique blend of internships, mentoring, and outdoor challenges in Worcester, MA, with courses available at Clark University. This program is designed for a semester or a full year, promoting community involvement and independent apartment living.
    URL: https://dynamy.org/

  • CIP (College Internship Program)
    Locations: Multiple Locations
    Cost: $80K/year (including room and board)
    Description: CIP provides a comprehensive college academic track with executive functioning support across multiple locations. This program includes college courses and is tailored for students seeking a structured academic environment with additional support.
    URL: https://cipworldwide.org/

International Experience and Cultural Immersion Programs

  • Aardvark Israel/MASA
    Location: Tel Aviv, Israel
    Cost: $15K/year
    Description: Aardvark Israel offers a full-time volunteer program in Tel Aviv, including housing with kitchens, evening activities, and the option for international trips. It's an immersive experience through the Israel Volunteer Association for those looking to contribute and learn in a vibrant setting.
    URL: https://aardvarkisrael.com/

  • Kivunim
    Location: Jerusalem
    Cost: ~$60K/year
    Description: Kivunim is based in Jerusalem and provides an immersive international travel experience with serious academic study and cross-cultural dialogue. Participants have the opportunity to travel to up to 12 countries, exploring diverse cultures and global perspectives.
    URL: https://www.kivunim.org/mission

    Program Designed for Students with ADHD

  • SOAR ANC
    Locations: North Carolina or Wyoming
    Cost: 28Ksemester/28K semester / 28Ksemester/56K/year
    Description: SOAR ANC is specifically designed for students with ADHD, offering international travel, volunteer opportunities, and college classes with an emphasis on self-reliance. Available in North Carolina or Wyoming, it aims to foster independence and practical skills in a supportive environment.
    URL: https://soarnc.org/ 

    Unique Experiences

  • WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms): Live on a farm for free in exchange for work, experiencing life in a community setting.
    https://wwoof.net/

Travel and Adventure Programs

  • Custom College: Provides personalized consulting services to help find the right gap year experience.
    https://www.custom-college.com

    .J2Guides: Professional gap year consultants offering guidance to tailor the gap year experience to individual interests and goals.
    https://j2guides.com/about/
    This handout is designed to serve as a starting point for parents and students considering a gap year. Each program and resource offers a unique set of experiences, catering to a wide range of interests and goals. We encourage you to explore these options together, keeping in mind your child's aspirations, interests, and the invaluable opportunity for growth that a gap year can provide

Dr. David Danish
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