Taking a gap year: A valuable break or a risky detour?

By Dr. Sharah Zaab The Black Lens

As more students rethink the traditional path from high school directly into college, taking a “gap year” has gained widespread interest. Typically, a gap year is a structured or self-directed break for work, travel, volunteering, or skill-building. While it can benefit all students, it holds particular promise for African American youth – offering space for reflection, healing and financial preparation.

Pros: Financial Freedom, Personal Growth and Trade Skills

One major advantage of a gap year is its potential to reduce college debt. According to the Education Data Initiative, Black graduates owe an average of $25,000 more in student loan debt than white graduates–often due to borrowing more for tuition and cost of living. A year of working or saving can ease this burden significantly (Education Data Initiative, 2024).

Another overlooked opportunity is using a gap year to learn a trade. Vocational skills – such as HVAC, barbering, coding, or automotive repair – can be acquired in under a year through certification programs or apprenticeships. These skills offer pathways to immediate employment or side income during college. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), African American students are underrepresented in vocational training programs, but participation is growing due to the rising cost of four-year degrees (NCES, 2023).

Programs like Year Up and Job Corps specifically target underserved communities and offer training in high-demand fields like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, often with stipends or housing support.

Additionally, gap years can support personal and emotional development. Research from the Gap Year Association shows that 98% of students who take a structured gap year report increased maturity and self-confidence, and 75% say the experience helped clarify their college and career goals (Gap Year Association, 2023).

Cons: Academic Drift and Financial Barriers

Despite the benefits, gap years can pose risks. Students without a clear plan may struggle to stay motivated or return to school. A 2022 Inside Higher Ed survey noted that while most colleges support gap year deferrals, students who lack structure often delay reentry into formal education – or skip it altogether.

Another concern is the cost of certain gap year programs, especially international travel. While some offer scholarships, many are financially inaccessible to low-income students. However, low-cost or paid opportunities (e.g., AmeriCorps, local apprenticeships or part-time work) can provide meaningful alternatives without major expenses.

An Empowering Path

Forward

Colleges, including many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), are increasingly open to gap year deferrals for students with a purpose-driven plan. With guidance, African American students can use this time to build financial independence, clarify career paths, and gain the life skills necessary for long-term success.

A gap year is not a pause in progress – it can be a powerful launchpad.