Gap Year: The Pros and Cons
28 February 2018
Taking a gap year between college and University can be a great idea, especially if you need a break from studying and you want the freedom to explore options such as work, travel and volunteering. I took a gap year after I finished college (it actually turned into two years) because I did not feel ready to go to University immediately after finishing my college studies. I also needed time to think about my options. The decision turned out to be absolutely the right one for me and the timeout helped me to decide on the subject I did want to study at University. However, it is not the right option for everybody and here are the some of the advantages and disadvantages to take into consideration.
Advantages
Taking time out can help you to become independent and self-sufficient, especially if you start working and decide to travel
You can earn money for University and for yourself which will ease any financial pressures
You can become more focussed on your education by developing a mature outlook about your future
You can start another course of study to pick up more UCAS points for University
A gap year gives you the freedom and flexibility or the confidence to pursue a qualification which really interests you and potentially moves you in another career direction
You could learn a new language
If you start volunteering, you will gain valuable experience, help others and gain life skills which you can include on your CV to enhance your employability
You could consider volunteering and working in another country where you can learn about and gain an appreciation of other cultures; this will broaden your outlook on life
Travelling will give you experience of being away from home which can prepare you well for University life
The timeout can give you space to think and consider future options carefully
You can meet people who are outside of your social circle which will build your confidence when communicating with people you don’t know
You can start an Internship which will provide you with a realistic insight into the workplace whilst also gaining valuable work experience
You can start preparing for your Degree by reading key texts, gaining work experience, learning to drive and taking any required tests
Disadvantages
Have a plan in place for the gap year! You could easily end up doing nothing but watching TV which is not useful for your future or your confidence
Always defer your University place if you plan to take a gap year, or you might lose it
You might feel isolated if your friends are all going off to University
Unless you keep up your revision, you might forget key information which is essential for the Degree
Travelling abroad and gap year programs can be expensive, so your finances could take a severe hit
You will be a year behind your friends who are at University
It is possible that your motivation to start a Degree might be affected during the gap year
Student Finance funding rules can change during the space of a year
It can be a stressful experience, especially if you are worried about money or have a lot of organising to do whilst preparing for travel abroad
Parents and other people might discourage you from taking a gap year, so always discuss your decision with them beforehand and what you hope to achieve during the year out
Make sure you take a gap year for the right reasons. If you want to spend it partying, then it is not a valid reason!
I hope this article has provided you lots of information to consider if you are thinking about taking a gap year. With careful planning, a gap year can be invaluable with regard to helping you gain confidence, independence and work experience.
By Sonia Riyait