A "gap year" is being considered by more and more young people. Before you commit to a major choice, such as choosing a college or a job, it may be an opportunity to earn some additional money, gain experience, and discover more about yourself.
A gap year can evoke a range of feelings; it is both appealing and daunting. The whole purpose of taking a gap year is to have a meaningful experience during it when you can discover who you are. But on the other hand, it is uncharted territory, which is what might scare some. Some planning is, however, necessary to make sure you have the chance to pursue your interests and the freedom to change your direction.
The Right Time For A Gap Year
Often people find themselves confused while deciding when is the right time to take a gap year. If you are also one of them then read on to know more…
Before College
Jumping through increasingly more hoops while completing high school can seem like a race to the finish line. Before embarking on college life, a gap year gives you the chance to reflect and refocus while also developing the independence, maturity, and self-assurance necessary to excel in your academic endeavours.
After College
You might have just graduated from college, and still have a need for growth and contemplation. You can meet these objectives as you get ready for higher education, or your first job by taking a gap year after your undergrad degree.
While Working
Working professionals who are exhausted or having second thoughts about their job choices can also benefit from taking a break. After the challenges of college or the pressure of early job training, a gap year (or maybe a little less, depending on your situation) can provide college grads and young professionals with a much-needed breather.
4 Things To Make The Most of Your Gap Year
Once you have made up your mind to take a gap year, you need to next make a decision on what you're going to do to utilise it. Here are 4 top ways to spend a year off:
1. Volunteer
According to the Gap Year Association survey, 79% of gap year alumni volunteer during their time in some way. In fields including conservation, education, and health, there are numerous volunteer opportunities available both nationally and internationally. Utilise your gap year to work as a volunteer for a good cause. You can help the poor and the needy, people who require immediate medical attention, or even animals.
2. Learn a New Language from the Natives
What better way to hone your abilities than by conversing with native speakers all day, every day? Knowing a foreign language can look great on your CV. Spending your gap year abroad can help you become more fluent whether you're working or volunteering. By working with local communities who speak their mother tongue, you can also combine language learning with civic engagement. When you return to college or work, you can use your expertise by beginning to teach language lessons or by working as a freelance translator.
3. Remote Internships
Even if you're halfway around the world, you can apply for remote internships with businesses headquartered close to one of these places. You may still enjoy your gap year while maintaining a connection to the real post-college employment markets in this way. You'll probably learn skills and knowledge that will benefit you in your first year as well. Even when you're far away, you can still access your local job market and stay connected to your hometown. One of the best ways to do this is through remote internships during your gap year.
4. Learning Freelance Skills
The number of work choices is limitless for people looking to take a gap year, but there are many benefits to learning a skill that can be used to make money online as compared to a conventional, in-person job. The moment you master a skill, whether it be in social media marketing, blog post writing, or even data analytics, you can join these freelancing networks online and find work.
There is no right or wrong way to spend your gap year, but keep in mind that potential employers will probably wonder how you used your time. Volunteer work, proficiency in a second language, travel, and professional experience are all advantageous additions to a CV.
During this phase of reflection, the focus is on self-discovery and making the most of the time at hand to accomplish something useful. Individuals who take a gap year basically remark on their increased self-assurance, communication abilities, resiliency, initiative, mental wellness, and different perspectives.
