"Gap year": Yay or Nay?

Taking a year off before going to colleges or universities has become highly common in recent years. The main reason for the popularity of this trend is the numerous benefits it brings to those students. However, like all things, this trend also contains certain drawbacks. Let's consider both pros and cons of it in this article.

The first and most important advantage of taking a "gap year" is financial aid. During the year off, students can have times for earning money, which can help them afford college tuition fees later on.

Secondly, depending on their types of jobs, those students will be able to gain new knowledge and skills, especially social skills. This is also a good chance for them to travel and experience new things.

Though extremely beneficial, it would be mistake to not consider the disadvantages of taking a year off. The main disadvantage is, a year off can make students forget what they had learned in school, therefore making it more difficult for them to continue with their studies.

Another problem that should not be overlooked is re-socializing with other students who did not take a “gap year”. Being older than others, even just 1 year older, can make the said student feel distant from those who choose to not take a gap year, since they are younger and less experienced. In conclusion, although taking a gap year offers many benefits and opportunities, it also has some downsides. However, in my perspective, taking a year off between high school and college is a good idea and should not be discounted for its drawbacks.