A Launchpad for Future Success
In recent years, the idea of taking a gap year before starting university has gained recognition and support from career advisors and universities. This article aims to shed light on the advantages of a well-planned gap year for students and parents.
Originating in the 1960s as a means of cultural exploration, the concept of a gap year has evolved significantly. Today, there are diverse gap year options that offer opportunities for self-discovery, skill-building, and gaining real-world experience.
During a gap year, students can customise their experience with activities such as volunteer work, internships, travel, language learning, academic pursuits, entrepreneurship, work experience, personal development programs, research and independent projects. Depending on the activity, one might develop a range of valuable skills including empathy, teamwork, leadership, intercultural competence, language proficiency, problem-solving, entrepreneurship, time management, communication, self-awareness, adaptability and practical skills. By engaging in a gap year, students gain a well-rounded educational experience that makes them more competitive in their future academic and professional pursuits.
A well-planned and structured gap year can provide:
Professional skills and maturity: This particularly benefits students who may have missed key soft skills development during the covid-19 pandemic.
Finding the right path: Allows students to explore interests, make informed decisions about their future, and gain real-world experience.
Diverse opportunities: Teaching similar skills that a traditional academic institution offers that may be more suitable and approachable for some learners.
Stepping out of the comfort zone: Embracing challenges, pushing personal boundaries, and experiencing transformative growth and increased self-confidence.
Making informed decisions: Particularly beneficial for students who are unsure about their career path, it offers the time and space to make informed decisions, explore different options, and gain clarity before committing to further studies.
The advantages of a gap year are well-recognised by parents, employers, and higher education institutions alike. It fosters self-sufficiency, personal growth, and a broader perspective. By embarking on a carefully planned gap year, students can equip themselves with valuable experiences, skills, and maturity that will set them up for success in their future academic and professional goals.
For more information about gap years, I recommend reading “The Gap-Year Advantage: Helping Your Child Benefit from Time Off Before or During College” by Karl Haigler and Rae Nelson. Please feel free to reach out to Ms Kit Archbold for more ideas and information about gap years.
Source:
Birkett, C. (2023, August 13). The Parents’ Guide to Gap Years. The Parents’ Guide. https://www.theparentsguideto.co.uk/post/the-parents-guide-to-gap-years
Kit Archbold | Secondary School Counsellor
