Volunteer and Adventure

What’s a gap year?

GVI

Posted: December 14, 2022

If you’re considering taking a gap year, you might be wondering “what’s a gap year?” A gap year is a year-long break between high school and college, or between college and graduate school, where individuals can take time to travel, work, volunteer and gain valuable life experiences. Imagine sipping a coconut on a pristine beach in Thailand, hiking through the lush rainforests of Costa Rica or exploring the bustling streets of Mexico City. The possibilities are endless!

Why take a gap year?

Taking a gap year can be a great way to step back and reflect on your goals and aspirations, and figure out what you really want to do with your life. It can also be a fantastic opportunity to see the world and experience different cultures.

How to plan a gap year

If you’re thinking about taking a gap year, there are a few things you should consider. First, you’ll need to make sure that you have enough money to fund your travels. This can involve saving up money from a part-time job, applying for scholarships and grants or even crowdfunding your trip.

The Olgas near the Valley of the Winds walk in the Northern Territory, Australia

Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia is the largest religious monument in the world and a World heritage listed complex, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992. Ancient Khmer architecture

Next, you’ll need to decide where you want to go. This can be a tough decision, as there are so many amazing places to visit around the world. Some popular gap year destinations include Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Costa Rica, Mexico and Cambodia. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of culture, adventure and relaxation. In addition to seeing the world and experiencing new cultures, a gap year provides opportunities for personal growth and development, as well as the chance to volunteer and give back to the local community.

Once you’ve decided where you want to go, you’ll need to plan your itinerary. This can involve booking flights, arranging accommodation, and planning activities and excursions. There are many companies that offer gap year packages, which can make it easier to plan your trip and ensure that everything goes smoothly.

The benefits of a gap year

Not only is a gap year a great opportunity to travel and see the world, but it also offers the chance to learn new skills, try new activities, and challenge yourself. Plus, you can make a positive impact on the local community by volunteering.

There are several potential benefits to taking a gap year:

Personal growth and development: A gap year can provide an opportunity to step out of one’s comfort zone, try new things, and learn more about oneself. It can also be a time to develop independence, self-reliance, and other life skills.

Exploration and discovery: A gap year can allow an individual to explore different career paths, travel to new places, and discover new passions and interests.

Academic benefits: Taking a gap year can give students a chance to take a break from academia and return to their studies with renewed focus and motivation. It can also allow students to gain valuable real-world experience that can be beneficial in their academic pursuits.

Professional benefits: A gap year can provide an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, such as through internships or part-time jobs, which can be beneficial when entering the job market after college.

Health benefits: Taking a gap year can give an individual the chance to relax and recharge, which can have a positive impact on their physical and mental health.

So why not take the plunge and make your gap year dreams a reality? Start planning your adventure today!

Overall, a gap year is a fantastic opportunity to take a break from the daily grind and explore the world. If you’re considering taking a gap year, we encourage you to do some research and start planning your trip today!