Taking a gap year? Do it right
Gap years are growing in popularity among Canadians. A well-planned year between high school and post-secondary studies can help students better understand what they want to study and what career path to pursue. Many students return to studies after a gap year, with more certainty about their chosen field of study and greater motivation to excel. However, not all gap years are created equal. Here are some tips to make most of a gap year:
It’s not a vacation
A gap year that offers a meaningful experience will be viewed differently from a few months spent travelling for fun by potential employers or university and admis- sions offices. An extended vacation is exactly that – a vacation.
Experience cultures
There are abundant opportunities for international experiences that include learning a new language, volunteering and exchanges. University applications and resumes are more likely to shine if they indicate that the applicant has a more culturally diverse perspective on the world based on unique travel experiences.
Career-oriented opportunities
This isn’t always so easy to achieve if a young person is still up in the air about career direction. However, for those who have clear career ambitions, seeking out an experience that relates to that field of study can be invaluable when time comes to apply for a related program or job. This indicates that applicant is invested, personally, in the program and is motivated to excel.
Keep a record
When the time comes to describe the experience on an application or resume, it may be difficult to recall one’s accomplishments. This can be avoided by maintaining a journal – digital or written – of the experiences. In the moment, it can be tempting to believe that each experience will be remembered clearly; however, relying on memory recall after several months have passed may prove harder than expected.
Volunteer for a cause
Volunteer opportunities abound for people of all ages, in every region across the globe. Finding a cause that provides personal meaning can create a tremendously rewarding gap year.