Champlain College Launches Credit-Bearing Virtual Gap Program

Vermont's Champlain College has introduced a Virtual Gap Program that allows high school graduates to spend a semester focused on intellectual, personal and professional growth before beginning their higher education experience. The 15-week program offers credit-bearing online courses that lead to virtual internships with organizations in the college's employer network, giving students real-world experience as well as mentorship support. The goal: to give students "a way to explore the world, ponder big ideas, improve their well-being and gain internship experience — all from the safety and comfort of their own home," according to a news announcement.   

"Champlain College's Virtual Gap Program is the first custom learning experience developed from the ground up that meets the diverse goals of recent high school grads and the unique challenges of these times," said Champlain College Incoming President Benjamin Ola. Akande, in a statement. "The program builds on our tradition of innovation, entrepreneurship and extensive online expertise, and squarely puts new students on a path for personal, academic and career success."

"Today's young adults are facing great uncertainty during a period of life that sets the stage for their futures. Many are experiencing a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety, leaving them feeling 'stuck,' and making it difficult for them to learn and grow. Well-being, career prospects, and personal exploration can couple with academics to support overall, holistic growth and set recent high school graduates up for success," commented Kimberly Quinn, faculty member and well-being and success coach at the college. "During times like these, a gap year can be a period of great progress — a way to move forward. Young adults in Champlain's Virtual Gap Program can use this time to build the awareness and positive momentum needed to be successful in both the academic and professional worlds."

Students who complete the program are given priority consideration for admission to Champlain College. For more information, visit the college website.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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