Some people see taking a 'gap year' as a waste of time. However, travelling to a new city or getting your first job can be a real growth experience.
Here are some more factors to consider before your make a choice:
Pros
Freedom
After spending more than a decade of your life in school there is nothing better than to have control of your time. You will be able to plan your own schedule and decide how you want spend your days.
Travel Time
This is one of the main reasons school leavers choose to take a year off. This is a good time to see the world and learn something about yourself. Commit to saving for a few months so that you can experience a new culture and broaden your horizons.
Gain independence
In order to make this year productive you will need to be responsible for your time, money and plans. You will also learn how to initiate and execute these plans. These are traits that will help you throughout your life.
Explore your interests
Do you know what you want? Many students choose careers or professions that don't really suit their personalties because they don't know who they are yet. A gap year is the perfect time to discover your natural interests and abilities as you work at different jobs and explore different places.
Cons
Graduate later
If you choose to take a break from your studies you will probably not graduate with your peers. This might be a set back to other work and financial opportunities that are available after graduation. Think about what you want out of life and the sacrifices you need to make to get it.
Losing friends
If choose not to study immediately after matriculating chances are you won't know anybody at the beginning of your first year. Friends are a great support system especially when you are entering a new environment. Be prepared to lose touch with the people around if you choose a different path.
Retail jobs
While working is a great way to learn a new skill and earn money school leavers are typically forced to enter the retail industry or take low paying jobs. This often means working long hours, or doing shift work which can be tiring and boring.
How to make your gap year successful
To avoid disappoint, plan in advance. Whether you want to travel or volunteer at a non-profit do your research before the gap year begins. Think about what you want to achieve or learn during the year and find out what it takes to reach those goals.
