After completing high school, it is typically expected that your next step is a decision between two-paths: university and full-time employment. However, the third option of a gap year is rarely considered. Just like university a gap year isn’t for everyone and takes a lot of research and planning. Here are a few factors to consider before making your choice.
Pros:
#1 Time out:
After being in education for several years you can feel burnt out and done with studying. Feeling apprehensive about continuing your studies could affect your grades at university. A gap year could provide you with some much-needed rest and relaxation. A gap year can help you reflect on your future goals and aspirations as well as providing you with some time out.
#2 Your chance to Travel:
This is your time to make memories that last a lifetime. An opportunity to travel with this amount of freedom may not present itself again. Travelling can be the perfect way to unwind and gain clarity of perspective on where you want to go in the future.
3# Your chance to do something new:
A gap year provides you with the chance to pursue your passions. This is your opening to get involved in something that you really believe in. Or you could take this time off to discover whether full-time employment rather than further study is the route for you.
Cons:
#1 You are doing it for the wrong reasons:
Wanting to attend countless parties is not a valid reason to take a gap year. Taking a gap year because you were rejected from your top school choice is not a good reason either – it will only make you feel worse. Above all, it can set you careening off of your career path. It’s best to look into the schools you were accepted to. You never know; you may end up loving your new school. If you don’t, you can always put in transfer applications.
#2 Important to start your career early:
It may be important to start early in your career. If you choose to go into a field that requires years of experience in order to succeed, being a year behind may not be the best option.
#3 Finances:
If you choose to travel, taking a gap year can take a huge financial toll. If you are unsure of the risk, ask yourself, “Is this a wise investment for myself or just a really expensive vacation?”