One option for graduating seniors is to participate in a gap year before college. Matilda Whelan is planning to attend Sandefjord folkehøyskole, a one-year study abroad program that many Norwegian students take after they finish high school.
“Sandefjord is literally a year where you get to learn about something fun,” Whelan, an American-born student of Norwegian heritage, explains. “I’m going for architecture and interior design […] I’m registered to take a gap year, and then I’ll attend a four-year university in the U.S.”
Whelan believes that taking a gap year is an excellent idea, as it gives students time to explore their interests and equip them with skills to prepare for life and higher education.
“I honestly think that this [program] is something that a lot of people could benefit from,” Whelan said. “I wish the US had programs like this. I’m really excited for it.”
