Gap Year
Uni…But Not Yet!
We’re here to give you some gap year ideas! Does uni sound fun and there is definitely a subject you would like to study further… but not quite yet? Or maybe you would like to go, but some practical experience in your chosen area would really help you to firm your decision. A gap year offers you the opportunity to gain skills and experiences, while giving you time to focus and reflect on what you would like to do next.
Travel
Explore the world, discover new cultures, and develop your independent living skills at the same time! Travelling is a popular choice for a gap year.
Head for the stars (and stripes!) by choosing Camp America. Working at a summer camp gives you the chance to try something different, experience a new culture and meet people from all over the world. Plus you get 30 days once camp has finished to travel the USA freely, road trip anyone?!
If snow sports are your passion, then a winter season on the slopes could be your experience of a lifetime. During ski season you will earn a fair wage, get ski/ snowboard hire, lift passes and usually one day off a week, all included. Host a chalet with a friend, become a ski instructor or put your chef skills to the test, plenty of varied roles are on offer. Slide over to Ski Season for more info.
Nothing but you, a backpack and a path less travelled- maybe you’d prefer to make your own way. Visit our guide on Travel Around the World for some helpful hints.
Paid to Experience
A year in the industry of your choice can gain you valuable professional development. Experience will make you stand out from the crowd of undergraduates. The financial reward of an internship is also a factor to be considered; Money is often tight when living the student life, an internship could give you a great head start. Have a look at Work Experience and Internships to discover more.
Volunteering
Support a worthwhile cause and gain valuable experience. You could take part in a wildlife conservation projects or if you’re on the pathway to medicine, try heading out on a medical mission. Teach english at schools overseas, or stick closer to home and find a charity that needs an extra knowledgable brain on the team. Jump over to Volunteering where we’ve got even more ideas.
Remember! Pre-uni gap years are very common now, don’t worry about your application being viewed negatively because of it. Continue on through What’s Next to find out more.
