Tips for Planning a Meaningful Gap Year
Planning a gap year might seem like an overwhelming task, especially if you don’t know many students who have taken a gap year. Maybe you know someone who has taken a gap year, but feel their experience is not what you want for your gap year. There is no single formula for a “good” gap year, but there are a few simple guidelines that I believe can help you navigate the planning process.
Make it uniquely yours! What worked well for someone else might not be right for you.
Start with some structure & support, then transition to experiences that allow for greater independence. Selecting gap year opportunities that are appropriate to each individual student’s experience and comfort level helps students to be challenged appropriately, while maximizing opportunities for growth.
Keep in mind, opportunities that offer a higher level of structure and support (ie. program leaders supervising students 24/7) tend to cost more. This extra support can be worthwhile and provides parents with peace of mind. Students with a high degree of independence, good communication skills, and previous experience away from home might benefit from gap opportunities that allow them to experience more freedom and individual responsibility.
Incorporate practical skill-building experiences, as well as, fun & adventure. Time spent exploring personal interests and trying new things allows students to reflect on their own values while exploring critical life questions: Who am I? What kind of life do I want for myself?
Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning “reason for being”
The gap year planning process should be student driven. Gap Year Consultants & parents assist with research and guidance, but students should be active contributors throughout the planning process.
A gap year experience does not need to be specifically created and marketed as a “Gap Year Program”. Work or volunteering while living at home, WOOFING or WorkAway, Interning or Job Shadowing, or participating in an all ages Volunteer Program Abroad can all be excellent gap year experiences.
Consider including at least one non-gap year specific experience into your gap year. Through work, volunteering, interning, or job shadowing, students are able to interact with diverse age groups or folks from different backgrounds. These experiences allow students to broaden their perspective (without necessarily leaving their hometown); while honing critical life skills, such as, motivation, communication, time management, and more.
Want more advice on planning a meaningful gap year? Schedule a no obligation introductory consultation today!