June 30, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Sanjaay When I started my application for the Gap Year Program, I carefully considered what I wanted to learn in these twelve months. I wanted to see the world, make an impact in my community, and learn more about...
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June 23, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Jimena There is something so incredible about visiting and seeing something that’s thousands of years old in person. This past year, I’ve had the opportunity to visit many of the monuments that most people only get to see through...
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June 15, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Alícia Two years ago, I stepped away from the traditional path to pursue a lifelong dream before college, driven by curiosity, a desire to grow, and a willingness to stretch beyond my comfort zone. Joining the Duke Gap Year...
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June 9, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Ryan Originally written late fall / winter 2024 Adventure is an expression of self-identity. A man of shorter stature, made up for this many times over by his commanding presence and easy confidence, has been guiding NOLS courses in...
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June 1, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Akira Hey y’all, it’s been a minute. I just got back from Japan, and I’ve got plenty of stories and photos to share with you guys. During the second half of my time in Japan, I spent a good...
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May 19, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Kai Hi, I’m Kai, and I’m from London, England. Before my gap year, the Maldives seemed like a place reserved for dream vacations or honeymooners. I’d never been to Asia before - let alone the Maldives - and I...
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May 16, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Ryan Originally written summer / early fall 2024 “What do you want to study in college?” For years, my answer to that question was vague but simple: “Whatever helps me understand and tackle big problems.” If prompted for more,...
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May 12, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Alícia Reflecting on my experiences this year, the first semester of 2025 has been incredibly exciting and fulfilling. With my ballet company in Romania, I’ve had the immense joy of debuting in multiple roles in the classical masterpieces Giselle...
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May 4, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Alexa After performing the Nutcracker for 12 years straight at my old studio, I thought I would be prepared for my first professional performance; I was wrong! After some time to reflect on that experience, I feel like I...
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April 27, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Griffin After working at a Christmas tree lot throughout December, I eagerly awaited the next phase of my gap year adventures. In early January, I embarked on the next leg of my travels, which would take me through Costa...
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