Going to college right after high school is not an idea that everybody is comfortable with. If you are one of these people, a gap year might be the right choice for you.
A gap year, also known as a sabbatical, is when a high school graduate waits one year (or more) before going to college. There are a lot of reasons why people do this, and there are countless opportunities that can be taken during a gap year.
Why do students take gap years?
There are a lot of reasons why people take gap years. College can be a physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding experience. And while high school graduates are expected to be ready to go to college, some people are not adequately prepared for it. A gap year can give them a break that they need to tackle college with a much clearer head while also giving them opportunities to grow as a person, gain experience, and explore other options.
What are the best things to do during your gap year?
If you are planning to take a gap year, here are some of the best things that you can do with your year off:
1. Get a job
Working during your gap year is an excellent way to build your CV and earn extra money for college. There are lots of job opportunities that you can explore. Some companies even offer jobs specifically for people taking their sabbatical, such as the position of gap year teaching assistant in Australia.
By getting a job, you are also gaining real-world experience that can help you grow as a person. It also gives you excellent training on how to manage your hard-earned money, especially if you are living independently.
2. Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, and it will look good on your resume. Find a cause that you care about and see what you can do for them. Aside from realizing the importance of helping others, you can also gain valuable work experience that will guide you later in life.
3. Take a class
Just because you took a break from school doesn’t mean you stop learning. During your gap year, you can try taking classes that interest you and will help you learn new skills. Have you always wanted to learn how to cook, bake, paint, or play the piano? A gap year can give you a lot of time to learn.
4. Travel
Traveling to other places, especially overseas, is one of the best ways to gain new life experiences. It is also an opportunity to learn more about yourself as you navigate unfamiliarity and practice independence. So don’t pass up the chance to travel during your gap year.
5. Take care of yourself
Senior year can get pretty hectic with the SATs, college applications, exams, and extracurricular activities piling on top of each other. Thus, a gap year can be your opportunity to recharge physically, mentally, and emotionally.
If you think a gap year is going to make you a better person and a better student, don’t hesitate to take one! Taking a gap year doesn’t mean you’re lazy -even Malia Obama took one before going to Harvard. So if you think a gap year right for you, go ahead and jump in on the trend.
Photo by Vasily Koloda on Unsplash