Essential Eligibility Criteria

An Interim client is one who can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) for participation. Successful gap year participants are in good physical and emotional health, are curious by nature, and are willing to fully immerse themselves in experiential learning environments. They are excited to explore new skills, experience new places, and are capable of working positively with others.

Physical and Mental Health:

1. Be in good physical and emotional health.
2. Not all programs are designed to accommodate those dealing with behavioral, motivational, or rehabilitation issues. Be sure to be transparent with Interim and program providers. It is imperative that you clearly communicate any physical, psychological or logistical limitations that you may have. This can include prior commitments, chronic conditions, medications, and so forth.

Attitude:

1. Be open-minded and willing to try new things.
2. Uphold a positive attitude at all times, even when challenged physically, mentally, or emotionally.
3. Exhibit good manners, tolerance, respect, and compassion towards others.
4. Be amenable and willing to interact with new and unfamiliar cultures.
5. Enthusiastically engage in program activities.

Safety and Judgment:

1. Be able to adapt to changing conditions and circumstances.
2. Be able to identify and recognize hazards and risks when traveling.
3. Heed warnings, instructions, and contracts shared by programs and instructors.
4. Know how and to whom to report criminal acts against you or your property.
5. Know your ‘trigger’ stressors and have a plan to maintain your physical and mental health while traveling.
6. Possess the ability to self-advocate to effectively communicate your questions, concerns, and/or problems directly with your program provider(s) in an attempt to work out any problems on an individual or group level.

Student Initiative and Engagement:

1. Be actively involved in designing and coordinating your gap year. This takes: time, patience and effort. We are here to support you as advisors, researchers, mentors, and with resources, but ultimately it is your responsibility to see through the planning of your gap time.
2. Engage in frequent communication with Interim counselors.
3. Interact with all aspects of your placements to the fullest and best of your abilities even when - and especially when - things are challenging!
4. Uphold any contracts and guidelines made with programs and placements that we refer including, but not limited to, policies regarding culturally appropriate behavior, alcohol and drug use, attendance, and participation.