What is a gap year?
According to the American Association of Medical Colleges, “a ‘gap year’ is the period of time between the end of your undergraduate education and the start of medical school” or other health professional program. Gap years are not uncommon! By taking a gap year, students get a chance to experience life after college, build their knowledge in a new way, and grow in an understanding of their own place in the world.
What are some things that students do during gap years?
- Take a break from school
- Take prerequisite courses and entrance exams
- Gain professional and clinical experience
- Confirm dedication for their profession
- Earn and save money for school
- Spend time with friends and family
- Pursue hobbies and travel
- Develop self-care practices
- Develop self-reflection and a growth mindset
What are some reasons students go straight to health professional school after their undergraduate studies?
- Desire to start their career as soon as possible
- Desire to keep up their study skills
- Deferral of loan payments
- Already have a competitive application prepared
Admissions Perspectives
"We are looking for applicants who are empathetic, problem solvers, critical thinkers, possess leadership abilities, are good team players, and are strong communicators among other characteristics, skills, and abilities. Therefore, many different types of gap year experiences can be helpful: AmeriCorps and other service year positions, research, professional work experience, pursuing an advanced degree, or working in a health-related field."
-Susan Wold, Coordinator in the Office of Admissions and Diversity, School of Dentistry
What if my gap year is unplanned? How do I reapply?
Know that if you applied to a health professional program and were not admitted, you are not alone! There are many successful health professionals who had to apply to professional school more than once. The key to success is to develop a strategic plan for your next application.
Check out our PHSRC blog post, An open letter to the Health Professional School reapplicant, to review recommendations and resources related to being a successful reapplicant. Learn about:
- The importance of self-assessment and reflection
- Methodologies for strengthening your application
- Strategic considerations for reapplication
The PHSRC also hosts Reapplicant Renovation Workshops every spring.
Assess your application readiness
Use the Gap Year Assessment tab in the Pre-Health Action Plan to start thinking about whether your application portfolio is ready.
Be honest about your responses. There is no singular timeline for applying to health professional school, and there is no such thing as a perfect candidate. What is right is what is best for you!
Meet with us
Only you know whether taking a Gap Year is the right decision. We can help you consider a variety of factors that influence that decision. After you complete your Gap Year Assessment, schedule a meeting with a career counselor to develop your customized timeline and plan.