Taking a gap year can improve your grades and job prospects
TAKING a gap year before going to university can improve final grades and job prospects, according to academics – although students thinking of taking a year out between A-levels and starting a degree course should plan it carefully.
University admissions tutors say young people taking a gap year shouldn’t just have a good time and party, but look at how to add value to their studies and gain insight and widen their experience of the world. Earning some much-needed money might also help them financially when they start their studies.
Professor Chris Collins, head of Bangor University’s School of Music, said young people should think about getting work experience and travelling the world to make the most of 12 months away from academic study.
“After finishing at school or sixthform college, most students are eager to embark on their university experience as soon as possible, and that’s great – we’d certainly never suggest a gap year to someone who can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“Having said that, though, if someone is seriously considering a gap year, then we’d strongly recommend it. That extra year of life experience definitely pays off, not at the beginning of the course but at the end.
“It’s those experiences that can tip the balance in a student’s favour as they apply for jobs, and just being a bit older and more experienced often results in a better grade.
“Not all gap years are equal, though. We always advise students to gain as much experience in their field of study as possible. For music students, we advise that they carry on having instrument or voice lessons, even if only occasionally. We recommend doing as much music-making as possible and taking every opportunity to hear live performances.
“One of the best things a gap year student can do is to try to get some work experience – paid if possible – in an environment relating to their field of study.
“And if they can do all of this on the other side of the world, widening their cultural experience too, so much the better.”
Barrie Clark, head of UK student recruitment for Swansea University, said his institution also welcomes gap-year students, but stressed that applicants should use the year wisely and check the regulations for the course they hope to take – as it is not possible to defer a year for all courses.
In 2017-18 only 5% of students joined Swansea University after a gap year, including students who applied for deferred entry and those who applied during their gap year.
“Swansea University welcome students taking a gap year,” said Mr Clark.
“If a student feels that a short break from study will help them ‘recharge their batteries’, gain valuable experience, meet new people, develop greater awareness of and insights into the world, and enhance their own skills and aptitudes in the process, then we’d be happy to see them return to us after a gap year.
“Such students come back to us refreshed, enthusiastic and ready to make the most of their studies and their student experience at Swansea University.
“However, there are a just a few courses where it is not possible to defer one’s place for a year and it is important to check before planning a gap year.”