July 15, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Ian I would say my gap year follows the script of an average slow burn Hollywood film. A flashy opening which introduces the characters and sets up the story followed by a lengthy exposition where plot is furthered and...
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July 14, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Ryan Originally written spring 2025 “Community” is a word that appears everywhere: school programming, mission statements, on the website of the very program I am on right now. At St. George’s, it was gospel, both literally and figuratively, and...
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July 8, 2025
By: Camey VanSant
By Santiago As I was deciding to take my gap year, I thought to myself, “What am I going to do?” I knew I wanted to get out of the country and travel, but didn’t have the slightest idea of...
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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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