If you’re in high school and starting to think about what comes next, you might be thinking about a gap year. Traditionally, it’s a period of time (not necessarily a year) when students take a break between finishing school and starting further study or work.
Gap years aren’t always right for everyone, and there’s always the opportunity to take a break at other points in your life – but if you’re wanting to take one ASAP, let’s take a quick look into why taking a gap year could be a fantastic choice for you.
Boost your university grades
Worried that a year off might make you rusty? Think again: studies show that students who take a gap year often do better academically when they start university.
Often it’s because they’ve had time to take a break and feel less burnt out, their time away has built up motivation for their next step and future pathway, or because they’ve gained additional life skills to handle the pressure that tertiary studies can bring.
Figure out your future
Not sure what you want to study or do for a career? You’re not alone. But a gap year might actually help you figure it out.
About 60% of students who took a gap year said it helped them decide on their course of study and future career path. This means less time and money spent changing courses later on.
In fact, 95% of 2020 Gap Year Association (GYA) survey participants said their gap year prepared them for their next step into further education or the workforce. And a further 78% of college graduates participating in a gap year believed the time helped clarify what they wanted to do in life.
“60% of gap year students said the experience either ‘set me on my current career path/academic major’ or ‘confirmed my choice of career/academic major’.”
Karl Haigler and Rae Nelson, The Gap-Year Advantage
Grow as a person
A gap year isn’t just about taking a break; it’s also a chance to grow. A whopping 98% of students said their gap year helped them develop personally, and 97% felt it made them more mature. Whether you’re traveling, working, or volunteering, you’ll gain experiences that shape who you are.
According to Robert Clagett, a former Senior Admissions Official at Harvard, gap year participants often “begin college with a more mature and focused mindset”.
Image source: Perceptions of Gap Years Amid the Pandemic, College Finance 2020
Prepare for the workforce
Employers love candidates with real-world experience, and taking a gap year can give you skills and experiences that makes your resume stand out.
In a College Finance survey of 210 hiring managers, 80% agreed gap years are important for personal growth, and 21% were more likely to hire candidates who’d taken a gap year, especially if they undertook work experience within that period.
Plus, 78% of gap year alumni believe their time off improved their preparation for college, impacted their career field, or helped them get a job.
Image source: Perceptions of Gap Years Amid the Pandemic, College Finance 2020
Things to keep in mind
While a gap year may have many benefits, it’s essential to plan it well so you can really make the most of the experience.
Think about what you want to achieve – whether it’s saving money, traveling, or gaining work experience. A well-thought-out plan ensures your gap year is productive and fulfilling.
And remember, you don’t have to take a gap year straight after high school to reap the benefits.
Final thoughts
Taking a gap year can offer numerous benefits, from better grades to personal growth and career readiness. If you’re considering taking one, start planning early and set clear goals.
Still unsure? You might like to take our Gap Year quiz and do some more research, or find lots more information in our latest Gap Year Guide.
