Image
Gap Year Counselors
Gap Year Counselors
Meet the counselors attending the USA Gap Year Fairs, and learn how they can support you in planning your best year yet!
Benefits of working with a gap year counselor
Benefits of working with a gap year counselor
From picking the right program to making the most of your year, gap year counselors help you create a meaningful, balanced, and unforgettable plan tailored to your goals and interests.
Personalized guidance
Personalized guidance
Get tailored advice based on your unique goals, interests, and learning style to create your perfect gap year plan.
Expert network
Expert network
Access decades of combined experience and connections with vetted gap year programs worldwide.
Ongoing support
Ongoing support
Get support throughout your planning process and even while you're abroad to make the most of your experience.
Meet our gap year counselors
Meet our gap year counselors
Learn from industry-leading gap year counselors and advisors who have guided thousands of students on their journeys.
Holly Bull, Ed.M.
President, Center for Interim Programs
Holly Bull has 40 years of experience guiding students and adults through the gap year process. As president of the Center for Interim Programs, the nation’s first independent gap year counseling service since 1980, she continues to expertly place individuals in meaningful, vetted programs.
Julia Rogers
Founder of EnRoute Consulting
Julia Rogers is a leading gap year expert with over 17 years of experience helping students design meaningful, transformative pathways. As founder of EnRoute Consulting and former President of the Gap Year Association’s Board, she is a nationally recognized advocate for experiential learning.
Jason Sarouhan
Co-Founder, J2Guides
Jason Sarouhan has 25 years of experience supporting students in experiential education worldwide. As co-founder of J2Guides and a former wilderness and travel guide, he brings expertise in leadership, risk management, and adventure-based learning to shape every student’s gap year.
Jane Sarouhan
Co-Founder, J2Guides
Jane Sarouhan has been a trusted expert in gap year and experiential education for 30 years. Co-founder of J2Guides and an accredited Gap Year Association counselor, Jane's authentic and engaging approach has built a network of families, programs and professionals worldwide to support gappers in planning intentional, fun and growth-filled gap years.
Frequently Asked Questions
A gap year counselor guides you through the entire process of planning a meaningful gap year. They help you explore your interests, identify suitable programs, manage applications, and prepare for your experience. With decades of combined experience, our counselors have placed thousands of students in transformative programs.
Look for programs that align with your interests and goals, whether that's travel, volunteering, internships, or skill-building. Consider factors like program length, cost, location, support systems, and how the program will help you develop specific skills or gain clarity about your future.
Ideally, you should start planning 6-12 months before you want to depart. This gives you time to explore options, save money, and prepare logistically. However, our counselors can help you plan on shorter timelines if needed.
Yes! Many gap year programs offer scholarships and financial aid. Our counselors are familiar with various funding options and can help you identify programs that fit your budget. The USA Gap Year Fairs also award $5,000+ in scholarships annually.
Gap year programs are structured experiences with built-in support, community, and educational components. Independent travel offers more flexibility. Our counselors can help you decide which approach is right for you or create a hybrid experience combining both.
Preparation involves practical logistics (visas, packing, health) and personal preparation (setting goals, managing expectations, building resilience). Your counselor will guide you through both aspects to ensure you're ready to make the most of your gap year.