With graduate jobs becoming more difficult to secure, people may think that a gap year straight after university will subsequently mean a gap in your CV – but new research shows that this may not be the case.
There is a lot you can decide about what to do during a gap year. A gap year can be a valuable opportunity for personal growth, exploration, and skill development. I've compiled some impressive ways how you can use the gap year:
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Goals and Objectives: You can clarify your goals for the gap year. Do you want to gain work experience, travel, volunteer, learn a new skill, or explore potential career paths? You shall set clear objectives to help you guide your decisions.
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Self-Discovery: You can use the gap year to explore your interests, passions, and strengths. Engaging in different activities can help you gain a better understanding of yourself and what you want to pursue in the future.
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Skill Development: I suggest you consider acquiring new skills that could be beneficial for your personal and professional development. Some of my examples are: learning a language, mastering a musical instrument, or gaining technical skills.
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Travel and Cultural Exposure: If you travel during a gap year, you get valuable cultural experiences and broaden your horizons. Experiencing new cultures, languages, and perspectives can be both educational and enriching for you.
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Volunteer Work and Community Service: Engaging in volunteer work will help you give back to communities in need and develop a sense of social responsibility. It's a way to make a positive impact while also gaining valuable experiences.
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Work Experience: You can consider taking on part-time jobs or internships related to your field of interest. This can give you practical experience and help you build your resume. Also, you'll get insight into potential career paths.
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Educational Opportunities: Use the time to take courses or workshops that align with your interests. Online learning platforms and local institutions can offer you a variety of options to enhance your knowledge and skills.
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Networking: You shall connect with professionals in industries you're interested in. Networking will help you gain valuable insights, mentorship, and potential opportunities for future internships or jobs.
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Physical and Mental Health: I recommend you prioritise your health during your gap year. Engage in physical activities, practice mindfulness, and address any mental health needs. Taking care of yourself is crucial for overall success.
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Financial Planning: Plan your budget and expenses for the gap year. No matter whether you're travelling or pursuing activities that require funding, if you have a financial plan, you can get the most out of your time without unnecessary stress.
The research from Netflights.com of over 2,000 UK adults revealed that only 15% of Britain’s over 25’s took (or still aspire to take) a gap year – whereas a whopping 54% of 16-24-year olds have already taken one or plan to do so in the near future, making this an increasing trend for postgraduates.
Whether you’re ‘finding yourself’ by guzzling down buckets of whiskey in Thailand or taking a more traditional approach to absorbing new cultures – there are undeniable benefits not only to your personal development but also to your CV.
Over two-thirds (63%) of people who took a gap year or sabbatical said it greatly benefited their CV and employability.
Almost everyone (90%) who did an internship during their gap year said it positively impacted their confidence by combining both travel and employment.
