National Public Radio aired in interesting story last month on the gap year - the idea of taking a year off between high school and college to see the world (or something like that).

More kids are taking gap years. Why? There are a number of reasons. Expanding your skills is high on the list. Just taking some time off to enjoy life ranks pretty far up on the list of reasons, too.


© _Gene_

Many colleges encourage gap years. One example in the story is Princeton. That Ivy League school hopes to get 10% of its incoming freshmen to spend a year in public service before starting college; the university will even help pay for it.

You don't have to go to Peru or New Guinea for a gap year experience. Many colleges recommend internship programs.

The story (4 minutes and 40 seconds) is available online.