CORE GAP YEAR FAQ
How can I benefit from coming to CORE?
For high school students/graduates: CORE participants can benefit greatly from taking time off from the stresses of academic rigor to serve others, figure out who they are, calling, interests and passions before spending thousands of dollars bouncing between majors in university. Plus, universities and employers understand the benefits to participants who take time off to give back and develop as an individual. CORE is specifically designed to help students chart a course for their future based on their identity in Christ and their personal story.
For college graduates: You’ve already received the academic side to your education, but what about education that takes place outside of your comfort zone? If you are unsure what your next step is or if you’re just looking for a bit of adventure before you head into your future career, a gap year program could be perfect for you!
For current college students: Haven’t graduated yet? Struggling to figure out your major? Or, answer the question, “what’s next?”. CORE is for you. Take some time off. Let your identity in Christ become the CORE of who you are and then use everything else you learn and experience during your time at CORE to launch you back into the academic scene with rejuvenated passion and curiosity.
What does CORE consist of?
CORE is made up of three components: experiential learning, service, and coursework. Through these three components participants claim their identity, define their personal mission, vision, and values based on their spiritual gifts and vocation. They are stretched through service, discipleship, and coaching.
When does the year begin and end?
The program begins Monday, September 12, 2016 and ends with a year end Celebration on Saturday, June 10, 2017. You'll have time off for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter breaks. See the "Details" page for exact dates.
Do I need to be a believer in the saving grace of Jesus Christ to participate?
Yes.
What are the age requirements for CORE?
CORE is recommended for anyone between the ages of 18 - 26. All applicants must be at least 18 years old by the program start date.
What is the best time to apply?
Right now! And go tell a friend to apply too. Applications are accepted through July 31, 2016.
What does the daily schedule consist of?
Typically, you’ll have Sunday afternoons and Mondays off.
Tuesday: Group Learning, Service, and Community Night
Wednesday: Group Learning, Service
Thursday: Service or Immersion, Thursday afternoon off
Friday: Morning off, afternoon group learning, evening service
Saturday: Service
Group Learning? What does it look like?
Group learning sessions will be lecture and discussion based. They will focus on Biblical Foundations, Leadership Development, Personal Finance, and Emotional Intelligence. These sessions will involve reading, active participation in discussion, and practical and real-life application.
What do you mean by "service" component?
"Service" is a key element of the CORE program. Through service, participants will gain real-world experience and an opportunity to apply lessons learned through group learning in practical and meaningful ways. One of the most visible aspects of service will be through outreach, frequently through partnering with ministries in New York City, Philadelphia, or other nearby urban centers. Service will also encompass hands-on learning and experience through utilizing your God given gifts and talents through the ministries of our parent organization, Fellowship Deaconry Ministries.
Where will participants live?
You will live with up to 4 other CORE participants of your same gender in a clean, furnished two bedroom apartment with laundry facilities and a full kitchen.
What is provided in participant housing?
Beds, dressers, table/chairs, couches, and even the kitchen sink – so you won’t have to pack that too!
Will a refund be available if a participant decides this program is not for them or is dismissed for breaking the rules?
Refunds will be given for any participant who is asked to not return at the start of the next semester.
What are some of the standards of community living?
See our handbook, to be posted soon. ☺
Who will monitor participants in the evening?
Participant apartments share a building with two of the program guides. If there is an emergency you can bang on the walls or knock on their doors, or call or text them (the latter is preferred).
Is the CORE calendar similar to an academic calendar?
Yes. The calendar aligns with a pretty typical American school calendar; fall through late spring/early summer. We do this intentionally to make it simpler for participants to make plans to start or return to college after finishing CORE.
Can I stay through the summer and be on staff at Day Camp Sunshine?
Yes, after successfully completing the application and interview process for Day Camp Sunshine staff.
Will CORE participants be allowed to bring their own vehicles?
Yes.
Do participants need health insurance?
Yes. CORE and its partner organizations (FDM, DCS, SPS) do not provide health insurance for participants. We highly encourage participants who attend to be covered by health insurance. Due to recent changes in health insurance laws and the age requirements for CORE, many participants will be able to remain on their parents' health insurance policy. When participants are serving with one of our parent organizations, they are covered by workers' compensation for any injury related incidences.
Where is the nearest doctor or pharmacy to get prescription medicine?
Morristown Medical Center is approximately 15 minutes away. And there are several pharmacies and urgent care centers within a few miles of our property.
Should I still ensure admission to college even though I’m attending CORE?
Yes. College admission is very competitive. Therefore, it is smart for current high school students to apply to colleges while they are in high school with available resources (counselors and time). After acceptance, contact the college to inform them of your decision to take a gap year and defer enrollment. Many schools will hold scholarships and financial aid until you enroll the following year. This is also applicable for anyone currently enrolled in college. Informing your college or university of your plan to enroll in a gap year program helps ensure your college admission is guaranteed when the CORE program ends.
Is there internet access?
VERY important question. The answer is yes. Several of our buildings are equipped with wireless internet signals. Do note that at various points during the CORE program (such as the hiking trip) students will be asked to disconnect from technology in order to connect with other participants and to support spiritual growth.
What is the nearest airport to CORE?
As we are in the Greater New York City metropolitan area the following airports are nearby (in order from closest to furthest): Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Trenton, NJ (TTN) or Lehigh Valley (ABE) are also fairly close.
Can family and friends visit me during the year?
Yes. Reasonably priced guest rooms are available for rent on-site, and there are several hotels nearby. Please note that our policy does not allow parents or any guests over the age of 25 to stay in the CORE housing. Please contact the Fellowship Deaconry Conference Center at 908-641-1777 for more information and availability of on-site guest rooms.
Where should I purchase my books?
Participants have developed different preferences for reading over the past few years: hard copy, ebooks, used, borrowed, etc. It is the participants' responsibility to acquire the books for their group learning sessions.
Will I be able to go home?
Yes. Participants are able to travel during holiday breaks and on weekends when they do not have service responsibilities.
How many students are accepted in the program?
The maximum number of participants accepted is 24 per year.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is July 31, 2016. Applicants may still apply after the deadline but will be put on a waiting list.
