The Power of a Gap Year by Sophia

The Power of a Gap Year by Sophia - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

Gap years are still fairly taboo and frowned upon, however I think my gap year was the best decision I made for myself. While everyone is going to respond to their circumstances and environment differently, taking a gap year did wonders for my mental health, helped me develop clarity on what I want for myself, and gave me space to enter a state of growth. During this year, I worked full-time, developed some of my hobbies, and took time to genuinely reflect. This was extremely refreshing for me after my two years in a state of burnout. I was able to let my mind breathe while I continued to prepare for the education I knew I wanted.

Growing up practicing dance, I became very intrigued by how my body was moving and what was happening when it got injured. I wanted to understand what was happening and how to better help others like me move more efficiently. This began my journey to choosing to major in kinesiology. During my senior year and gap year, I was able to further explore this possible interest through weight lifting and exploring different dance environments. I wasn’t able to fully feel comfortable with choosing this path until I had time to establish areas of growth within myself, which is why I put so much emphasis on my gap year. I was able to apply to universities confidently the October of my gap year and have now furthered my interest in a future career in physical therapy.

Those who want to pursue physical therapy might pursue various undergraduate majors that fulfill prerequisites for PT school. The reason I chose kinesiology, the scientific study of movement, is because of its broad and patient/client centered approach. Holism, an interconnected mind-body-environment approach, is a key foundation for kinesiology, and something that I have found to be of major value in my developing approach towards life. I don’t just want to major in kinesiology to simply get the degree; I am prepared to use the life skills I’ve developed while I continue to pursue my education. The experiences that I gained throughout my gap year were very shaping for my confidence pursuing a major in kinesiology. I am also prepared for changes in my thought process. What I do know is that I’ve discovered that I have passion for the benefits of movement and that I want to help others experience and find healing in those benefits. Kinesiology has seemed to align most with my future goals and desired disciplines as a future professional in the field of physical therapy. I’ve also chosen to pursue a minor in dance to enhance and diversify my knowledge of movement which I think will complement my planned major in kinesiology well.

My gap year has made a tremendous impact on the development of my perspectives and approach to life. Choosing my major was definitely a process, and I think taking a second to breathe instead of rushing straight into university was a key step to how I chose my major. I developed confidence knowing that I was entering a field where I can help others live the quality of life they aspire to live while also pursuing my personal passions.