Blog Layout

What does a Gap Year Counselor do?

Ivey Patton • Feb 24, 2021

We inspire a year of adventure and self discovery!

Let's take a minute to talk about what a gap year counselor does. I get emails all the time from folks wanting help finding the right program for their young adult. They don't want just ‘any program’….they want to know what I think is the best program to fit their needs.  And in a nutshell, that's what a gap year counselor does…recommends great programs from great providers that are vetted and time tested. We do not get paid by providers in any way. We offer our knowledge and experience within the gap year industry as a counselor, coach, or consultant.


One google search sends most folks running to a counselor because it's logistically overwhelming. There are literally thousands of programs. And if you're planning on spending between 10K and 50K, it just makes sense to consult an expert on the subject for a very reasonable fee. 



After completing the survey and our initial interview, we will have established some goals and guidelines. That's when it gets fun. We will begin to recommend programs, trips, and plans for your gap year depending on your budget, desires and goals. We hope to stretch you a little and find an itinerary that will surpass your own expectations and we will certainly introduce some ideas and programs that you never would have thought of.


Here are some frequently asked questions about our services.


Do you apply to programs for me?

No. We recommend programs and you must apply. We can offer guidance and support, but it's very important that you be a good fit for your program.


Do you arrange travel for me?

No. We can recommend reputable companies to work with, but your travel arrangements are yours and you need to understand them inside and out, as you will be the one in the airport in Nairobi with a missed connection. :)


Do you work with parents or the young adult?

Excellent question! I primarily work with the one who will be taking the gap year! Makes sense, right? There is parent involvement at a certain level, but we will need to communicate primarily with the gap year participant for many, many reasons. 




We offer other services, but the primary objective of a good counselor is to recommend a gap year provider or series of programs that is a ‘near perfect’ fit for your young adult…one that will impact their life and set them up for the best possible experience. We have several packages at GYBC and I think you'll find once we get started that the questions are plentiful and you'll be so glad to have a support system to lean on. We've introduced a new product, the Quick Consult, for those who have more basic needs and just want to ask a few questions. There is a counseling package to fit your needs and I think you'll find that it's an incredible value to have guidance and support for such a grand undertaking!

 


By Ivey Patton 23 Feb, 2024
The gift of time...a gap year is an excellent alternative
By Ivey Patton 23 Jun, 2023
It's time to stake your claim
By Ivey Patton 20 Mar, 2022
Have you made a life list yet?
Share by: