A Guide to Gap Years
If you're planning on doing a university degree or apprenticeship next year, the concept of a gap year might have crossed your mind. Traditionally taken between leaving school and starting university, a gap year is a popular choice for many students. If you're thinking about taking one or still haven't decided yet, here are some positives to taking a year out.
Earn some money
If, for whatever reason, you won't be able to maintain a job while at uni, a gap year is a great way to earn some extra cash and build up your savings before you start. While I wouldn't recommend spending 100% of your gap year working 9-5, feeling financially secure during your degree will be an added weight off your shoulders.
Gain work experience
Unfortunately, many jobs are more competitive now than ever before, meaning you'll need more than just a degree on your CV to stand out. Having some industry-specific experience will not only improve your CV, but it will also give you an idea of what it's like to work there. This experience will help you figure out where you want to go after you graduate, a valuable insight!
Retake your A-Levels
With COVID-19 preventing students from taking their exams, many will feel that they could have done better than the grades they received. Taking a gap year will mean you have another shot at getting those target grades, which could mean getting into your first choice university! Remember, though, that revising for your exams will feel very different when you're doing it all at home. You'll also need to figure out what to do with the rest of the year once you've taken your exams!
Apply to a different course or university
It's not uncommon to have a change of heart after applying to university. Maybe you realised that you're not that interested in your chosen subject, or you'd rather study at a university closer to home. Whatever it may be, taking a year out will give you that time to reflect on what you really want.
Take a break
Easily dismissed but often the most valuable part of a gap year, it's a great opportunity to take a break. Go travelling, get involved with your local community, develop your hobbies. Whatever you choose to do, taking a gap year will allow you to recharge and broaden your horizons before starting a new phase of your life. This is a big step to take, so having the time to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself is very important.
Consider the cons
While there are many positives to taking a gap year, it's not for everyone. If you're studying a highly academic degree, you might find it more difficult to get into the swing of things after a year out of education. If you already know exactly what you want to do, taking a gap year might feel like a waste of time.
Whatever you decide to do, trust yourself to know what's best for you. If you change your mind last minute, you can always call up your university and ask if they can either defer your place by one year or if you can start this year instead of next year. They might not say yes but it never hurts to ask!