Gap Year, Volunteering and Charities
Why take a Gap Year?
A Gap Year isn’t just about travelling with friends to take a well earned break after three years of studying. Choosing the right Gap Year will enhance your CV, give you some time to think about your career options, and give you some fantastic experiences which you will remember for life.
Deciding on the best option for you
You’ll find a huge range of options open to you when deciding on what to do for your Gap Year. You can get involved in volunteer projects, work with children or animals, teach a language, or do an internship in a business abroad. Always plan ahead - think about what you want to achieve and make sure that the available options will match up to that.
Volunteer Projects
There are so many opportunities out there for graduates wanting to take a gap year that it can be difficult to know where to start. If you want to volunteer abroad it is worth going with a Gap Year company such as Oyster, or The Leap, as they can plan the trip for you, from booking flights, to finding a volunteer project where you will really make a difference, and you will always have a representative that you can contact for advice and support. Prices vary according to location and what is provided. If you are strapped for cash but still want to do something valuable to help others, there are lots of opportunities in the UK for fundraising, and charity work, all of which looks brilliant on your CV and will make a real difference.
Paid Work Experience
If you are looking to get some work experience when you are abroad, Gap Year companies also offer paid work projects, which can range from financial experience in New York to cattle ranching in New Zealand! Earning some cash for all your hard work is a great feeling but remember, it’s not just about the money, it’s about the experience and skills you are gaining - choose wisely!
Exploring
One of the best things about taking a gap year is exploring the country, or countries you are in, so make time for this. You may want this to be the focus of your trip, rather than a particular project and why not! It is still important to plan ahead, so you get to see all you plan to. It’s helpful to get in touch with a company that will plan it for you to make for an unforgettable experience. Companies such as trailfinders are able to book your flights, accommodation, and put together a suggested itinerary for you. Be creative as well, why not chose a trip completely different to the one all your friends older brothers and sisters went on? It will help you stand out from the crowd too!