A Year to Prepare by Giselle

A Year to Prepare by Giselle - August 2019 Scholarship Essay

Imagine yourself straight out of high school not knowing a single thing about what its like to live on your own or pay monthly expenses. Oh wait! That is my life right now. I am currently on track to spend the next four years at UC Berkeley, but I couldn’t help but think what would’ve happened if I took a gap year? I wouldn’t be in debt just yet, thats for sure. Taking a gap year actually sounds appealing because it would be the first time in my life when I am not 100% dedicated to school.
If I took a gap year the first thing I would do is find a flexible and reasonable paying job. Maybe in an office or a paid internship where I could earn experience and network. I would save about 75% of my earnings for school costs for the following year. And another 10% on saving towards buying a used car. The second item on my list that I have been dying to do is travel. I have only been on a plane once in my life and my middle school class trip to Washington DC will always be one of my favorite memories. However, I would love to travel to a country in need and do community service. It would warm my heart to know I am helping those who need it. I want to be exposed to different lifestyles and maybe it could change my American ideals for the best. I feel like it would be a breath of fresh air to escape this capitalistic and close-minded country and take a dip into somewhere where everyone doesn’t think money will buy you happiness. This brings me into my final reason to take a gap year which is to explore and find what I am truly interested in. Yes, you might be saying “Giselle how are you going to Berkeley and not knowing what you want to do in life?”. Well, as of right now I am entering undeclared with an intent in business. But, I am open to exploring new majors and career paths. With a gap year I feel as if I will have extra time to find something I love to do and make it into a career. I will be able to meet new people and have some experience in the adult working world.
Several people may think a gap year isn’t the right route to take. It may be an excuse to not go to school for some, but if I was able to take a gap year I would make use of it while enjoying myself. I believe saving money, traveling, and finding your true calling is the only way I would spend this extra time before committing to a college.