High School Gap Year

Maxine G., a CIEE Global Navigator alum, shares her transformative experience during her Gap Year Abroad program in Sevilla, Spain. Initially nervous about adjusting to a new culture, she quickly adapted to Spanish customs, such as the lively social scene and unique mealtimes. She highlights the joy of outdoor dining, the significance of the Spanish siesta, and the difference in meal schedules, noting that lunch is the largest meal, typically enjoyed around 2 or 3 PM, and dinner is served late. Maxine reflects on how these cultural differences enriched her understanding of Spain, making her gap year a life-changing adventure that broadened her perspective.

If you have a teenager getting ready to graduate high school, you may have heard of the idea of a "gap year" and have questions about it. A gap year... keep reading

One of the major hurdles for students contemplating studying abroad for a gap year can be the visa process. Most gap year semester programs do not require a visa, however... keep reading

If you’re here, you’re looking right at the immersive program at CIEE. Maybe you have questions: What will life be like? What to expect, what to be aware of, and... keep reading

Post submitted by Emma C, Gap Year in Japan '23 When I was 13 years old, I decided I wanted to study abroad. I had visited a museum that featured... keep reading

Thinking about taking a gap year abroad? You may have a lot of questions varying from cost to length of time, and even where to go. Big decisions can be... keep reading

Climate change is among the biggest concerns threatening Monteverde’s famously rich ecosystems. Due to rising global temperatures, the timing, strength, and frequency of cloud cover and rainfall is becoming increasingly... keep reading

AND…Life must go on! Since the beginning of November, France has been under lockdown again. This means, for CIEE staff and student, that the program keeps going on…line. GYA students... keep reading

Occitanie region includes some of the most remarkable site in France. Carcassonne is one of them and is an absolute must-see when visiting the south-west of France. From Toulouse, it... keep reading

Our Gap students arrived in Toulouse on September 28, almost four weeks ago already! And yet, they continue asking themselves: is this real? It always takes time to fully grasp... keep reading