Brian Earp took a gap year

Brian Earp, 20, Yale University sophomore. Philosophy/psychology and history major.

Gap year: A National Merit finalist with a 4.0 GPA from Shoreline's Shorecrest High in 2004, Earp opted for a single-year deferred entrance to Yale to accept a paid internship with Seattle Children's Theatre, and acting jobs at Issaquah's Village Theatre.

Looking back: "I looked at it as a way to learn some real-life lessons, not as having a really long summer. ... In most cases, I was the youngest person in the cast by 20 years and these people were established in their field. I didn't have friends my own age to rely on. At times, I remember feeling a bit depressed and lonely.

"Looking back, I'd say this was probably the smartest decision I've made in my life so far."

Pros: "When I eventually got to school I was a year older than most of the people. I just felt a little steadier on my feet and I had a certain calmness because I'd already been through something new."

Advice: Watch your savings and consider consulting with a financial adviser if you plan to apply for financial aid. Use wages earned through a paying internship to buy things needed for college — maybe a computer. Otherwise, the school will count your earnings holdings, and that can work against your family's financial needs.