|
22ND NOV 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 So you've graduated - no more college or university, you may be wondering what to do? do you want to work or play? You may call it a 'gap year' or 'taking a year out'. It's easier to sell to your elders when put in these terms, you can quote the facts and figures. But at the end of the day, you're looking for a dossy time, probably in the sun and doing something different.
A gap year can be many things; exciting, challenging, adventurous, educative, rewarding maybe painful too? Ultimately the vast majority of gappers feel they have learned something, about themselves, the world, other cultures, their chosen career. It can be a time to think, and recharge the mental batteries before further education.
Some people work through a gap year and take this time and newfound knowledge to choose their path to desired career. Or perhaps realise it isn't for them before they undertake several more years of University or College.
If you want to broaden your horizons and take time to think about your future, a gap year before university or work will help build your confidence. Increasingly a popular decision is to take a gap year between school and university. Just remember Employers and universities will want to see that you have used your time wisely.
A gap year may benefit an employer looking for applicants who have the skills to be able to adapt to the work environment, and are mature and confident. Taking a gap year gives you the chance to be independent, to travel or work away from home in the UK.
 Many gappers return feeling more mature and responsible, having learned more about themselves. The break from study prepares you for the new challenges of university and an enhanced CV will give you an edge in the marketplace if you're looking for a job.
You can plan your gap to include a period of work and travel. A friend of mine who wanted to go on to work with special needs children after Uni, spent a summer working on an American Holiday Camp, and then stayed for a further five weeks to do his own thing. When he started work after Uni this gap year helped him get the job as much as did his qualifications. It set him apart, in a positive way, from the other applicants. There are many companies who can help you organise a gap year and it may be worthwhile checking some of these out.
Taking time out between A-levels and work or higher education is becoming an increasingly popular option too. When thinking about a gap year you need to remember it's not just a holiday. A gap year is your chance to learn new skills, meet different people, new cultures, gain work experience, and prepare yourself for the next step in your life.
Provided by The Student Zone (United Kingdom)
|
|
| |
|
|
 |
HOME -
TRAVEL
-
FINANCE
-
CAREERS
-
COLLEGE & UNI GUIDES
-
FEATURES
-
ENTERTAINMENT
-
COMPETITIONS
-
INTERACTIVE
-
CONTACT
|
|
