How to Make the Most of a Gap Year

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Taking a gap year before starting university can be a great way to gain new experiences, develop your skills, and make informed decisions about your future.

While it’s not for everyone, it can be a great way to take a break from education, gain new perspectives, and prepare yourself for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Here are some benefits to taking a gap year and things that you should seriously consider if you’re planning to take one.

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Working

Whether you’re interested in interning, an apprenticeship, working part-time or full-time, there are countless opportunities to develop your skills and learn about different industries. This hands-on experience can be invaluable when applying for different jobs or further education. Work experience can help you to try out a career before you invest a lot of time into something you don’t like.

Volunteering

Volunteering is another great way to make the most of your gap year. By giving back to your community, you can develop valuable skills, meet new people, and make a positive impact on the world. There are countless volunteer opportunities available, from working with children to protecting the environment. This looks great on your CV and gives you other avenues outside of paid work to explore your interests.

Woman wearing a sunhat and a large hiking backpack. She is sat on a stone wall, looking out over a large body of water and a luscious, rocky and green mountain.

Travelling

An enticing advantage of a gap year is the opportunity to travel and explore new cultures. Whether you want to backpack through Europe, volunteer in a developing country, or explore the hidden gems across Wales, travelling can broaden your horizons and provide you with unforgettable experiences. It can also help you develop important skills like independence, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Travelling before university is a popular choice as when most people finish university, they’re keen to get a job as soon as possible in their chosen field.

Hobbies

A gap year can also be a great time to explore your interests and hobbies. This is the perfect time to pursue your passions that you might not have had time for before. Try something new like making music and art or trying out a new sport. This can help you discover what you’re truly interested in and make informed decisions about your future.

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Mental health

Taking time out in a gap year can be a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health. It can give you time to relax, recharge, and reflect on your life. By taking a break from the pressures of being in education, you can gain a new perspective and return to your studies feeling refreshed and motivated (if that’s what you choose to do).

Goals

To make the most of your gap year, it’s important to set goals and create a plan. Decide what you want to achieve during your time off and create a timeline to help you stay on track. Try to network with people in your field of interest and build relationships that can benefit you in the future.

Planning a gap year can be daunting. If you’re unsure what to do during your gap year, a Meic adviser can help! Chat with us about your goals, interests, and worries from 8am to midnight every day.