In this episode of Gap Year Radio, host Julia Rogers chats with Abby, a gap year alum and current aerospace engineering student, and her mom, Elena, about Abby’s incredible year of exploration and growth. From volunteering at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand to road-tripping through 10 National Parks, Abby’s experiences shaped her confidence, independence, and readiness for college and beyond.

Elena shares her perspective as a supportive parent, offering tips on researching programs, addressing common concerns, and empowering independence. Together, they discuss scaffolding gap year experiences, overcoming challenges, and why a gap year is valuable for all students, including high-achievers who know what's next.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

🌍 How Abby’s gap year journey unfolded across Thailand, East Africa, and the U.S.

🌍 Why structured programs like Pacific Discovery and ARCC helped build her confidence for independent travel.

🌍 Elena’s advice for parents: how to research gap year programs and support independence.

🌍 How Abby’s gap year shaped her mindset for college and prepared her for a career in aerospace engineering.

🌍The value of “being bad” at something—and how it fosters resilience and growth.

Resources and Links Mentioned

Pacific Discovery: Explore immersive adventure and service programs around the world.

ARCC Programs: Offering gap year and teen travel programs focused on global education and service.

Gap Year Association: Resources for planning a gap year, including fairs, program directories, and alumni support.

Connect with Us

🎧 Listen to more episodes of Gap Year Radio: gapyearradiopodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @gapyearradio

🌍 Email your gap year questions or comments at gapyearradio@gmail.com

✍️If you have a moment, please leave a review so more people can discover Gap Year Radio!

🎶Intro/Outro Music: Quasi Motion by Kevin MacLeod; licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License More info: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Kevin_MacLeod/Global_Sampler/Quasi_Motion/