I've explained why I believe it would be stupid for you to forego taking a gap year. Actually, I share your sentiments towards studying overseas. It’s pretty epic that you can stay in another country for five months, learn about what you’re already interested in, and then earn college credit. My own semester abroad in Chile will always be remembered as one of the most idyllic times of my life. It was instrumental in carving out the postgraduate life that would come—I’m not sure I’d be a travel writer writing this article if hadn’t studied abroad.