While students often have a general idea of what they want to pursue after graduation, some may leave college without a clear sense of purpose or direction.

Students may also be emotionally drained, physically exhausted, and mentally overwhelmed after 16 consecutive years in school. I’ve spoken with students who think their post-grad opportunities are limited to two options: going to grad school or into the workforce. However, these two options are daunting especially when a student is burnt-out and without a clear sense of what they want to do after graduation. However, a 3^rd option that is often overlooked is - a gap year!

Taking a gap year is a “natural break” between college and starting your career that can give students a broader understanding of the world and of their place in it. I think the best gap years are not only those that inspire and push people to reflect upon their role in the world, but also those that motivate people to be better members of society. This belief has led me across the country to partake in the AmeriCorps VISTA program. This program is a voluntary civil society program specifically designed to place members in cities aiming to help communities alleviate poverty by creating and implementing systems of organizations to meet critical needs of the local community and deliver valuable resources to people. I’ve been collaborating with local organizations to lift poverty by working to increase student’s attendance by developing mentoring programs, supporting students who are chronically absent, and advocating for their needs with the hope of creating a long-term sustainable program that will benefit the Allentown School District. My hope for the end of my service year is to create and implement sustainable approaches to achieve social justice by empowering, supporting, and collaborating with individuals, organizations, and communities.

Gap years and service years are not only a valuable means to serve people and their communities, but it is also a great way to develop marketable skills. My service year helped me refine my leadership, communication, and empathy. Plus, my time with AmeriCorps has taught me to embrace and advocate for social justice by creating a space for people who are socially, economically, and culturally overlooked. Spending time working in a community that I’ve never been to has opened my eyes to the world around me. I have the pleasure of listening to other people’s stories, which has helped me to gain a whole new perspective on how to live life.

I am in the seventh month of my year of service, and I have experienced immeasurable growth and empowerment through this kind of motivation and purpose. Giving my time and energy to service has helped me refine what my passions are and what I want to pursue afterwards. I’ve made mistakes, developed ideas, and tried new things. I might not always know the answer, but I’m always learning. Gap years are an excellent way to learn more about yourself and the world around you; getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life can open your eyes to new opportunities outside the classroom.

Gap years can come in many shapes and forms—whether it be a service year, missionary work, or taking time to travel. By serving with AmeriCorps at DeSales University, I’ve started conversations with people about social and systemic issues. My hope for anyone who takes a gap year is for them to become lifelong thoughtful citizens who are involved in their communities, and that they act collectively in the interest of a better future. Activism, civic engagement, being involved with social justice, and advocating for social change is important for everyone! I know that through my service year, I have experienced transformation and rigorously reflected upon social structures that contribute to inequities, and therefore I have been able to make change within my spheres of influence, taking steps to a more just and equitable future. Beyond career development, I have become a better-engaged community member of society.