GYA is a nonprofit association of individuals and organizations who believe that intentional gap years can contribute to the pursuit of a meaningful, fulfilling life. GYA defines a gap year as "an intentional period of time devoted to personal growth and exploration through experiential learning opportunities."

While the details of an intentional gap year will vary widely depending on individual interests, abilities, and resources, there are certain elements that are consistent among the most meaninful, impactful gap experiences, one of which is healthy CHALLENGE.

Every individual has different thresholds when it comes to their levels of comfort and challenge, and those thresholds will continue to shift as a person gains new experiences. Our advice to students setting gap year goals is to identify experiences that will push them out of their comfort zone and into their “challenge zone,” which is where the most transformative learning will take place. What are some areas they would like to grow in? What are some experiences that might feel uncomfortable at first, but that will be enriching in the long run?

This EXPERIENTIAL CHALLENGE FUNDRAISER aims to raise funds to support GYA's initiatives in gap year research, equity & access, resources, and standards & accreditation while also engaging our community in exciting, transformative challenges that embody the spirit of gap year growth and empowerment.

Gap Year Association

Active campaigns

GYA EXPERIENTIAL CHALLENGE FUNDRAISER

Past campaigns

GYA's 2025 Experiential Education Raffle & Silent Auction