A gap year can be a transformative experience for you before moving on with your studies or career development. It can be a chance for you to explore and experience the opportunities that might not be available in your routine. The question arises: what exactly to do during a gap year? If you are wondering the same, and you want to make the most of your gap year, then here are some ideas:
Travel and Explore
Whether you plan to travel within your country or choose to travel across the globe, traveling comes with its fair share of exploring a new dimension – not only in your surroundings but within you as well. Take your gap year as an opportunity to experience different cultures and broaden your perspective. Step out of your comfort zone and witness the beauty in its various forms surrounding this world. Witnessing different cultures, exploring a variety of traditions, and moving across the globe is a life-changing experience!
Traveling develops a sense of appreciation for what we take for granted. It makes us realize the value of hard work, kindness, and empathy. It provides a personalized and authentic experience of real-time scenarios. It can be an eye-opener for you.
Volunteering and Community Service
Volunteering is not only about giving, but also about gaining in return. When you volunteer, you not only provide support to a community, but you learn life skills and values that will stay with you for an eternity. Volunteering is an empowering experience for all the stakeholders involved.
You may choose to work for your community or be a global citizen and serve the deserving communities abroad. An organization that is working for the welfare of these communities can prove to be your guiding light. Join hands with an organization like United Planet and be a part of their local or global community service programs. Such organizations also offer gap year volunteer programs that can make your volunteering experience more meaningful.
It is not necessary to be physically available for a volunteer program. You may also choose to
Internship Programs
If you are interested in gaining some experience in a particular field before taking it up as a full-time career, internship programs can serve the purpose. Whether it is a full-time internship program or a part-time beginner-level job, it will add to the practical experience of the field you want to opt for: providing detailed insight that can help you make the right decision. It will also add a shining star to your resume.
In case you are considering education or health fields or want to work towards environmental sustainability, United Planet can help you land a project that not only develops work-related skills, but also helps you build a stronger character. They provide you with a choice to opt for a virtual or non-virtual program. Based on your choice, it can help you provide a hands-on learning experience and an entirely changed perspective.
Personal Development and Growth
What to do during a gap year? If you are still processing this thought, this can be your answer. Look for opportunities that help you provide valuable skills and grow as a person. Invest your time in learning a skill that you are always looking forward to learning. Or try to learn something new that you might not think of in your routine. You may take this year as a chance to improve essential life skills such as 21st-century skills. It will lead you to self-improvement and personal development in the long run.
Indulging in communal work and traveling can both serve as the perfect opportunity for personal growth along with a sense of achievement. You might also discover a new purpose for your life.
Innovation
Do you have a business idea or a project that you want to give a try? Unleash your creativity and turn your ideas into reality. Be it a small startup, or a unique mobile app, make the most of this break, and you may find new horizons to your professional growth.
Academic Pursuits
While you may take this year as a break from formal education, nevertheless, the learning should never stop. Keep reading about new subjects you want to explore. Enroll in short courses (online or face-to-face). Delve into independent research projects that interest you. Attend workshops. Explore literature, philosophy, scientific discoveries, or whatever grabs your attention. It is your time for intellectual growth as well.
Self Reflection
Whatever you choose to do during your gap year, don’t forget to reflect and ponder upon your experiences. This can be a transitional experience where you will explore your potential and interests and might become a different individual. You may redefine your goals and aspirations. This self-reflection will take you one step closer to your personal growth.
Embrace the change. This is your chance for self-discovery. Enjoy the journey and stay open to new opportunities as well as challenges.
Our Take
A gap year should be well thought out; this one year can be an enriching experience for learning, growing, and discovering yourself. Whether you choose to travel, indulge in communal service, try a new venture, gain work experience, or pursue a personal passion, it should not be about passing a year, but making the year count. Whatever you choose, don’t hesitate and embark on adventures. You may choose to enroll in the gap year programs offered by different organizations such as United Planet and make the most of your time and this opportunity.
ABOUT UNITED PLANET
United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Established in 2001, United Planet offers volunteer abroad, virtual internships, internships abroad, gap year volunteering, and global virtual exchange in more than 40 countries.
