What are the advantages of taking a gap-year?
I am intrigued in what people have to say for this because I have thought about taking a year off before I enter college. I am interested in having a career in the medical field, but am also interested in film-making. I was thinking I could either do some volunteer work during this time or start making YouTube videos, or both! What are the Pros & cons of taking a gap year? What other things are good about taking a gap year so I can convince my parents? #college #medicine #high-school #advice #film-making #gap-year
5 answers
Jared Chung
CareerVillage.org TeamJared’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Hi Alexis. I think your question has already been asked... https://careervillage.org/questions/2792/does-it-affect-my-job-prospects-if-i-take-a-gap-year-before-college If you think the answers you're looking for are different, please edit your question to specify how the advice you need is different from that one. Don't forget, searching on CareerVillage.org for relevant questions is often the fastest way for you to get the advice you're looking for!
Lirio’s Answer
Additionally, a gap year can provide a break from the academic pressure, giving you time to recharge and explore your passions. Engaging in creative projects, like making YouTube videos, can help you develop technical skills, creativity, and a portfolio that may benefit you in the future.
However, there are also some considerations. You might need to stay disciplined to ensure the year is productive, and there’s a chance that you could lose some academic momentum. It's also important to think about how your gap year activities align with your long-term goals.
To convince your parents, emphasize how this time can help you become more focused and mature. Share your plans for what you’ll do during the year and how it can positively impact your future studies and career.
Jadie’s Answer
Jonas L. Harris
Jonas L.’s Answer
Volunteering is awesome! Working with companies like City Year or Americorps are good ways to go. I served to 2 years with City Year in Philadelphia. During that time, I paint murals in 3 states, learned recruitment, volunteer management, and program development skills. Moreover, I have been recruited for jobs and worked in Education for 12 years afterwards without a degree, Therefore, depending on the what you wanna do volunteer or find a focus program to work with is essential.
Matthew’s Answer
There are many benefits to taking a gap year. Some use it to gain more experience before applying to a school they want to go to. Some use it as a break. Others use it to discover themselves. Good luck!