If you’ve just finished high school or your child has, you may be wondering about the next step. It’s likely that people will come up to you and ask, ‘what are you doing next year?’ and you may not have the answer yet. That’s okay because it’s a big decision. The next step could lead you on to what you do for the rest of your life, so it’s important to make a decision for the right reasons. You don’t have to jump into anything. Taking a gap year to gather your thoughts can have tons of benefits. Here are some:
Find Yourself
Some students have difficulty choosing what to study in college because they’re good at lots of things and need to narrow down the options. Some students have difficulty because they believe they aren’t good at anything. A gap year is the perfect opportunity to explore the options. Find out what you’re really good at and what you enjoy doing. More people are making money from their passions by the day.
Boosts Confidence
A gap year abroad means you’ll be totally reliant on yourself. You won’t have your family there to rescue you, and although the thought may seem frightening, it’s also freeing. You have no choice but to take responsibility for yourself and it’s a major confidence booster. Even if you’re with friends, you still have to find a job and be accountable for your own actions. Colleges are starting to look fondly on students who have had this experience before college because it means they’re more likely to commit to their studies.
It’s an Adventure
Being in a new country and getting used to a new way of life is daunting at first. Once you’re over that, it’s just plain fun. You’ll get to meet new people and explore new places. You may fall in love…and fall back out of love. You’ll taste new food and listen to new music. All in all, a gap year abroad will broaden your mind and you’ll undoubtedly return home a completely different person to the one that left.
It Sets You Up for the Future
Many students that embark on a gap year abroad become travellers in later years. When you do a gap year it’s impossible not to notice the impact it has on you, and you’re sure to be hungry for more. Whether you stay at home and travel on holidays or you decide to emigrate, you’ll never be free from the travelling bug. You can get advice on UK indefinite leave to remain and moving to other countries online. Alternatively, why not check out some top destinations for keen travellers?
You Don’t Have to Stay in One Place
If you’re thinking about becoming a French tutor, a year in France is ideal for you, and it will look great on your future applications. But, if you’re not sure about what you want to do, you can travel to different places within a year. Pick up some tips on how to create the perfect itinerary.