Here's Five Reasons Why Your Student Should Forgo a Gap Year

Earning a high school diploma can feel like the peak of some students' academic careers. After years of grueling homework and late nights, students may want to take a break from school before heading to college.

More recently, with the disruption of the pandemic, studies have revealed an increase of students choosing to take a gap year or planning to enter the workforce rather than heading off to college. A year off may feel enticing, with students deciding to take time to travel, discovering what they are passionate about or gaining some work experience before committing to years of college academics.

But, there is the concern that students taking a gap year may decide to never return to higher education institutions. If your student is considering taking time off, it's important they understand how their decision can affect their future.

Here's why your student should consider going to college right after high school.

1. Earn more money in the long run – By taking a gap year, there is a loss of earning potential in the years a student takes off from college. High school graduates should consider that workers with a bachelor's degree earn 75% more than those with no more than a high school diploma, according to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce.

And, the good news is that college graduate earnings hit an all-time high. In fact, salary projections for the class of 2022 are showing gains in comparison to prior class years, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. The average starting salary is expected to be more than $50,000. Although it may seem more beneficial to take a year off to earn money, in the long run, it's more valuable to start college to increase your future earning potential right away.

2. Have a higher chance of job security – Some students may decide to take time off in order to earn more money to help pay for college. However, economists have noticed that since the pandemic disrupted the workforce, individuals with only a high school diploma are less likely to find a job. More entry-level positions are requiring applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. Although more jobs have been added across the nation in the past few months, fewer jobs are going to individuals without college degrees.

A previous survey by the Georgetown Public Policy Institute found that 65% of jobs require postsecondary education and training beyond high school. Individuals with a minimum of a bachelor's degree are also less likely to be unemployed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that workers who hold higher degrees have lower rates of unemployment. It may be more beneficial for your student to consider enrolling in college while working a part-time job to earn extra money.

3. Build a professional network – You may think that in order to build a professional network you need to start working right away. But, the best way to do this is on a college campus. Whether it's through connecting with professors, engaging in career services or participating in clubs, you will meet individuals with years of experience in your desired field who can help you find a job. These individuals can also be a reference for you. It's been said that 70% to 80% of jobs are never advertised. Instead, those positions are filled through personal connections.

At Southeastern University, we have clubs that are connected to local professional networks. Our students get to interact with professionals in their field of study from dozens of companies in the state. Through these types of networks, you could meet individuals who could hire you in the future.

4. Stick out in the job market – When you enter the job market, you need to have a competitive edge. If you decide to go into the workforce right after high school, you may not have as much experience or developed skills as your competitors. Through internships and practicum programs in college, you can get real-world experience before even graduating, and you can add that experience to your resume. Even better, there are internships that will pay you as you learn or even open up doors to full-time employment.
   
   Employers are often willing to pay more for a candidate with a college degree because they see its value. A survey by the American Association of Colleges and Universities found that employers believe a liberal arts education provides knowledge and skills that are important for career success.

5. Discover what you want to do – There are students who decide to hold off on going to college to figure out what they want to do in life. However, doing so can postpone the start of their desired career. You can still discover what you want to do by going to college. Taking various classes gives you the opportunity to explore your interests. You can also do this by participating in clubs or even studying abroad.
    

The first few years of college can be the perfect time to discover what you want to do as you complete your general education classes. These classes can give you an insight into what it would be like to pursue a certain career. College exposes you to many opportunities you may want to explore without having to make a lifetime commitment. You can even try out some of your passions.

By jumping straight into college after high school, you also have the academic momentum you need to keep going. Oftentimes, people who take a break from college end up struggling with making the return to an academic routine that they were used to while in high school. While taking a year off may seem inviting, it's important that you consider how your decision will impact your future career and potential earnings.

Dr. Kent Ingle serves as the president of Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, one of the fastest growing private universities in the nation. A champion of innovative educational design, Ingle is the author of "Framework Leadership.'' Read Kent Ingle's Reports — More Here.