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Why take a gap year?
Many people take a gap year before starting college or university as it is an opportunity to do something different. A gap year is a great way to visit new places and meet new people. It's also an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and increase your confidence.
What opportunities can a gap year offer?
- Travel around the world learning about new cultures.
- Develop your skills or work on sports coaching projects in communities in the developing world.
- Help save endangered species on a conservation project.
- Study abroad, improving a language or learning about a new culture.
- Volunteer to help others by working on projects at home or overseas.
- Help disadvantaged communities in the UK.
- Gain work experience to enhance your skills in a particular field or trade.
- Earn some money.
Thinking about travelling abroad?
Travelling abroad is the most popular gap year option, but be careful that it doesn't end up as an extended holiday. It needs to be planned and spent in a constructive way, if you want to make the most of it. Many people want to experience a completely different way of life, and travelling abroad is a great way to experience new cultures.
Volunteering
As a volunteer you can combine seeing other parts of the world, especially the developing world, with teaching, conservation or other types of volunteer work. Placements can last from three months to a year. There are plenty of volunteering opportunities available locally, take a look at our section on volunteering.
Volunteering on a conservation project is a great way to make a difference. You will need to be able to cope in remote challenging environments and therefore require a firm interest in your chosen project. Conservation projects show self-reliance, enthusiasm and commitment. These are excellent skills that you can add to your CV or personal statement in a university application.
Earning money
Many gap year students want to earn some money before they start their further education. It is important that you find a constructive job that will challenge your abilities and teach you valuable new skills. This experience will contribute positively to your CV.
Applying for deferred entry to university
If you plan to take a gap year you should consider applying for a deferred entry, which you can indicate on your UCAS form. It’s important that you state in your personal statement what you intend to achieve in your gap year as this will support your application.
Real Gap Experience - Ghana
Real Gap Experience - Thailand
Real Gap Experience - Australia
Useful Websites
Year Out Group
The leading gap year organisation.
Year In Industry
Year in Industry offers students the chance to join the real world of work.
Gap Year
Information on gap year projects
Lattitude
Information on gap year travel
UCAS
Manages applications to UK higher education choices.
Bright Link – Knowledge Bank, Gap Years
Provides information on the opportunities gap year offers, the pros and cons, and tips to help you plan your gap year.
Last updated: 17/11/12
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Posted - 10:43, 15 Aug 2011
That's way more clever than I was exepictng. Thanks!