Bharat SainiLast Updated on November 26, 2024 by Bharat Saini
Many students decide to take a gap year either before beginning higher education or before getting a job. A gap year is an opportunity to re-evaluate your life and work towards your goals. It is also a chance to do things you’ve always dreamed of. These tips will help you make the most out of your gap year.
Maximize Your Gap Year with These Expert Tips
1. Define Your Goals
Start by figuring out why you decided to take a gap year in the first place. Whether it’s to relax after years of study, improve your college application, or explore new opportunities, defining your goals will help you create a roadmap for your year. Use tools like SMART goals to structure your objectives.
Example: If your goal is to prepare for college, dedicate time to internships, online courses, or volunteer work that align with your intended field of study.
2. Travel and Explore
Traveling broadens your horizons, introducing you to new cultures and experiences. You don’t need a massive budget—opt for affordable travel options like:
- Platforms like Workaway or WWOOF to exchange work for accommodation.
- Booking flights during off-peak seasons.
- Exploring local destinations to reduce costs.
Example: “One student saved for months to backpack through Southeast Asia, where the cost of living is low, and the experiences are rich.”
3. Volunteer Locally or Abroad
Volunteering lets you make a difference while gaining valuable skills. Consider options like:
- Joining organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or UN Volunteers.
- Helping at local nonprofits for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Volunteering helps you develop teamwork, independence, and empathy. Plus, it looks great on resumes and college applications.
Example: A friend of mine volunteered in Egypt during her gap year, teaching English and learning about Egyptian culture.
4. Rediscover Your Passions
Did you love playing the piano in childhood? Or perhaps painting or writing? A gap year is a perfect time to reconnect with hobbies and explore your creativity. This not only helps with relaxation but could also uncover hidden talents that may shape your future.
Example: One student rekindled her love for painting and turned it into a small business by selling her artwork online.
5. Follow Your Dreams
Many take a gap year to reconnect with dreams they’ve set aside. Whether it’s acting, starting a business, or writing a book, use this time to pursue your passion.
Example: A law student took a gap year to work on a film project. Though he eventually returned to law school, the experience enriched his perspective and storytelling skills.
6. Learn a New Skill
Challenge yourself by learning something new—whether it’s practical, like coding or graphic design, or adventurous, like paragliding or cooking. Consider free or affordable resources:
- Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Duolingo.
- Community classes or workshops.
New experiences enrich your personality and could even open career opportunities.
7. Earn a Certificate or Online Degree
If you want a structured approach, online certifications or degrees can add value to your gap year. Popular options include:
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification.
- Short courses from platforms like Harvard Extension, edX, or Open University.
These credentials can boost your resume and align with your career goals.
8. Start a Blog or Portfolio
Blogging can help you document your gap year, showcase your skills, or even generate income. Whether it’s a travel blog, book review site, or photography portfolio, blogging adds value to your year.
Begin with platforms like WordPress or Medium, and commit to posting regularly. If monetization is your goal, research affiliate marketing and SEO strategies.
9. Create a Bucket List
What have you always wanted to do? Make a bucket list of activities ranging from adventurous (like bungee jumping) to simple (like trying a new cuisine). Ticking items off this list will leave you with cherished memories.
Example: A student used their gap year to visit 20 national parks, documenting the experience in a vlog series.
10. Live in the Moment
It’s easy to feel anxious about the future during your gap year. Remember to focus on the present and enjoy the journey. Practicing mindfulness can help:
- Use apps like Calm or Headspace for guided meditation.
- Keep a journal to reflect on your experiences.
Conclusion
A gap year is a canvas—an opportunity to design a year full of growth, learning, and adventure. Mix and match these tips to create your own unforgettable journey. With careful planning and an open mind, your gap year can become one of the most transformative times in your life.
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About the Author
P. Wish is an author and blogger. She released her first book in May 2015 and has another coming out in October. To find out more, visit www.pwish.net.
Twitter: @authorpwish
Facebook: P. Wish Author Page
YouTube: P. Wish’s Channel
