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 More and more students are planning to take a break between school and further studies, or between further studies and starting to work. However, many are either pressured out of it
(usually by well-meaning parents and friends), or overwhelmed by the numerous possibilities and choices available.
One can simply select one of the many package deals out there which offer participation in programs running over a number of weeks or even months, but the more interesting ones seem to cost a lot of money. UK gap students are paying about £300 to £600 per week to volunteer or coach sport or take part in extreme activities, and this excludes travel and insurance costs. Whilst many of the programs are good value for money, it is difficult to know which program to choose.
Even if the money issue is set aside, a gap year may not be the wisest choice to make. It very much depends on the individual’s unique circumstances and situation in life. Family problems, short-term deadlines, emotional immaturity and health factors may limit the options available to a young person. Sometimes it’s the gap year which has to be postponed, and not the studies!
Ideally each person considering a gap year would get personalised assistance and advice when planning a gap year. Many people can help - travel agents, school counsellors, family and friends, mentors and peers – and there are lots of books and websites which provide information about planning and taking a gap year. However, it is preferable to get independent advice from someone who is not a relative or friend, or who does not have a bias or hidden agenda.
Before finding a specialised consultant near you it would be a good idea to go through the following questions to establish your needs and desires. The process of answering the questions will often reveal the type of gap year relevant to your circumstances, and will allow others to give you better, more accurate help.
- Why do you want to take a gap year?
- What do you want to have accomplished by the end of your gap year?
- Where would you prefer to go during your gap year?
- Are there any experiences you do not want to have during your gap year?
- Would you like anyone to join you?
- How long will your gap be, and when will it start?
- How much money will be needed, and how are you going to finance it?
There are obviously many more questions that need to be answered, but you should get the idea!
If you know why you are taking a gap year, the how becomes clear! |
We compare the cost of staying at home to going on a structured gap year course in South Africa
There is not a shortage of jobs in this world – there is a shortage of great paying jobs!
When your gap experience is over and the dust has settled, and you are safely back at home it can be difficult to settle down at first.
Who doesn’t enjoy the concept of a break, a holiday, a gap from the daily routine of modern life? The question is really 
If you mention taking a ‘gap year’ to people you will probably receive variations on one of two reactions:
At any one moment there are thousands of people around the world taking a gap – time out – who have finished school,
