Gap Year Options

Gap years have become more and more popular in recent years and are usually taken when someone decides to take a year out before going to, or during university. Gap years are useful for gaining new skills and more confidence.

When considering what kind of gap year to take you should consider what is important to you and what you would like to gain from your year out.

Whether you want to see the world or develop skills and experiences that will appeal to future employers is your choice
Common gap year activities include:

• Travelling

Travelling is definitely the most common choice for a gap year activity. It is a great opportunity to see the world before you get tied down to going to university or getting a job. You get to experience different cultures as well as meeting new people.

• Working abroad

Working abroad is very worthwhile as it shows potential employers your capability, initiative, adaptability and also gives you the experience of working within another culture. If you haven't saved enough money before you leave, you could always work around the world, or even teach English as a foreign language (this is a popular choice). Remember though that you may need to have a working visa to work in some countries so make sure you check before you go.

• Studying abroad

This is a popular option which should be given some consideration. Not only does studying abroad give you the benefit of learning and interacting with students and teachers from another culture but it also makes you stand out when applying for a graduate job. Prospective employers look fondly on students with the imitative to complete a programme abroad. Successfully completing a programme abroad also looks impressive on your CV.

• Volunteering

Many organisations offer young people the opportunity to volunteer in different countries around the world. Volunteering can vary from helping out in classrooms to children summer camps to working in a conservation plant. There are plenty of volunteering choices to suit everyone's need and if you are not interested in volunteering abroad, you can always find opportunities nearer to home.