That’s a great question! It may seem…slothful to wait a year before either going to college, heading into the workforce, or figuring out what your next step is. But I is anything but that!

The OVERWHELMING majority of studies show fantastic benefits from taking an INTENTIONAL gap year. Here are a few.

More Confident, Resilient, and Self-Aware

Almost 100% of gap year students reported increased self-confidence and found themselves more self-reliant.

Higher Grades and Better Focus

A study by the Gap Year Association found that gap year students had an average GPA of 3.37 compared to 3.08 for those who didn't take a gap year. You leave high school often weary of the classroom and your academic pressures, but return after a year with greater focus and higher drive.

Increased Maturity

A survey by the American Gap Association found that 98% of students who took a gap year reported it helped them develop as a person. I wonder what the percentage is for those who go straight to college?

Future Career Satisfaction, Clarity, and Hireability

According to a study by the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES), 85% of gap year alumni stated that the skills they gained during their gap year helped them be employed better. And 84% of gap year students reported gaining skills that helped them with their careers, and 77% said their gap year helped them find their purpose in life. According to a study by WorldStrides, 82% of gap year alumni believed that their international experiences made them more attractive to potential employers due to their enhanced global skills.

Language Skills and Broader Worldview

According to the Gap Year Association, 70% of gap year participants reported significant improvements in their language skills A study by the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) revealed that 92% of students who took a gap year felt their experiences helped them develop a broader worldview. A survey conducted by the American Gap Association found that 90% of gap year students reported an increase in cultural awareness and understanding.

Long-Term Impact

Many gap year students continue to engage with different cultures long after their gap year ends. A Gap Year Association survey found that 75% of gap year alumni maintained relationships with people they met during their gap year and stayed involved in international or cultural activities.

Godly Character

A study by the Christian Gap Year Association found that 88% of participants felt that their gap year helped develop key character traits such as patience, humility, and resilience.

Leadership Skills

85% of alumni report enhanced leadership skills, often attributed to responsibilities taken on during mission trips and community service projects.

Lifetime of Ministry

According to the Christian Gap Year Association, 70% of alumni continue to be actively involved in church or ministry activities after their gap year.

In summary, Christian gap year programs have been widely acknowledged for their profound influence on personal and spiritual growth, community service, and long-term career and academic success. Compelling statistics and heartfelt testimonials consistently demonstrate the substantial and transformative impact these programs have on their participants.