According to the CDC’s most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey, about four in ten high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. That is not a passing bad mood. Today’s teens face pressures earlier generations never did: round-the-clock comparison on social media, intense academic competition, and an unspoken expectation to have their future figured out before they turn eighteen. For many families, the college admissions process adds one more layer

After years of structured schedules, deadlines, and pressure, it's not surprising that many students arrive at the end of high school feeling burnt out. A gap year gives students the chance to reset, gain real-world experience, and build the independence they'll need to succeed in college. That can look very different depending on the student. Some stay close to home and work, save money, or take a class, while others pursue internships, volunteer, or explore interests that w