I completely understand your concerns. I am going into my senior year of high school but I'm already swamped with college prep (SATs and ACTS, college counseling meetings, AP tests, etc.) I think that it's really up to you to decide what you want to do after high school. Going straight to college isn't for everyone. I know quite a few people who have decided to take a gap year or two to work or travel (if they have the financial means). I do think though that it is important to discuss your options with your college counselor or advisor and to make sure that you and your parents are both on board with whatever you decide to do. College preparation is super stressful but I know for me, I was considering taking a gap year as a way to avoid facing the college admission process because it just seemed so overwhelming. If you do decide to take a gap year, I strongly suggest that you talk about it with other people to avoid making the choice for the wrong reasons. Best of luck to you!