The Complete Guide to the Gap Year: The Best Things to Do Between High School and College

The new school year has only just begun and many high school seniors are under tremendous pressure to make plans for their future. For an increasing number of these students, the prospect of transitioning directly from high school to college after twelve straight years of school is uninspiring. Rather, these students seek an education beyond the walls of the classroom in which they can learn new skills and experiences, earn academic credit or a bit of money, or simply reinvigorate their life-long love of learning. The good news is that this potential “gap year” between high school and college has become even more attractive to college admissions deans and become even less expensive for parents. What stands between students and their dreams is the overwhelming decision of how they will spend that integral year.

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE GAP YEAR: The Best Things to Do Between High School and College (Jossey-Bass, a Wiley imprint; October 2009; $16.95/Paper; ISBN: 978-0-470-50119-1) by Kristin M. White is positioned to be the go-to guide for anyone considering a year to re-charge, follow a passion, become immersed in another culture, or simply mature before taking the next step in life. It includes everything a student, parent or guidance counselor would want to know about the gap year; including exactly what a gap year is, what it is not, and why it can have a positive impact.

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE GAP YEAR includes expert advice on:

- How the gap year is viewed by college admissions deans from acclaimed institutions like Harvard, Duke, and Bucknell.
- How to finance the gap year, including the best free programs, financial aid opportunities, and tax savings.
- How to earn much-needed income by doing something worthwhile and beneficial to others.
- How to make the decision using guided self-quizzes and helpful criteria if one should take a gap year, and if so, through which program.

In addition to valuable advice, THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE GAP YEAR provides an extensive Directory of Gap Year Programs, organized by location and focus. Whether one wants to become a certified ski instructor in French Canada or volunteer with AmeriCorps for an educational stipend, the directory serves as a valuable compass for planning this transformational journey. Although the book is targeted towards high school graduates, its wisdom can be culled by anyone looking to take time to refresh their sense of purpose.

In light of the tough economy, financial hardships, and renewed emphasis on public service, THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE YEAR is a timely and important resource for American students, parents, and counselors alike.