The transition from high school to college is a giant leap. Traditionally, teens have gone straight from wearing graduation caps to unpacking dorm rooms. But a growing trend is challenging this norm: the post-graduate (PG) year. This strategic year between high school graduation and college enrollment offers graduating seniors valuable time to mature academically, socially, and athletically. Here are some additional benefits.
- Academic enrichment: Some students may need more preparation for the rigors of college coursework. A PG year allows them to strengthen their foundational skills in core subjects like math, science, and English. They can take advanced placement (AP) or international baccalaureate (IB) classes to boost their college credit potential. Additionally, some PG programs offer specialized academic support for students with learning differences, ensuring a smooth transition to college-level work.
- Social and emotional growth: The teenage years are periods of rapid social and emotional development. A PG year can provide teens with a safe, supportive environment to further develop their social skills, self-confidence, and independence. Living away from home in a PG dorm setting (often offered by private boarding schools) can help teens hone essential life skills like time management, budgeting, and navigating new social situations.
- Athletic advantage: A PG year can be a game-changer for student-athletes. It allows them extra time to refine their skills, improve their conditioning, and gain valuable playing experience. This additional year can significantly enhance their chances of competing at the collegiate level or attracting scholarship opportunities.
- Boosting college applications: Students can use a PG year strategically to strengthen their college applications. They can improve their standardized test scores, retake core classes to raise their GPA or participate in internships or volunteer work to demonstrate their commitment and well-roundedness—all strategies that will make them stand out amongst a competitive applicant pool.
- Finding the right fit: The college application process is often overwhelming, and some teens may feel they need more clarity about their academic or career aspirations. A PG year can provide valuable time for self-discovery. Students can explore different educational paths, volunteer in fields of interest, or even travel abroad to expand their worldview, helping them make a more informed decision about their college major and future career goals.
PG programs are designed to push you academically. Expect a more rigorous curriculum compared to high school.
A PG year isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so carefully weigh the pros and cons based on your specific goals. Understanding your needs will help determine if a PG year is right for you. The most significant advantage a PG year offers is growth. Regardless of your focus, the tight-knit, collaborative community you join will encourage you to learn and grow, confront challenges head-on, and explore new subjects and interests.
