5 Life-Changing Things To Do On Your Gap Year

Taking a gap year is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Trust us, you’ll learn more in those few short months than your combined years at school. There is no education like life experience. Meeting new cultures and developing your social skills are all crucial aspects of life. Taking a gap year will satisfy that craving for travel and adventure. But, it will also set you up for a much better life after university or college. Seeing the world, and all its beauty, is one thing that no-one can ever take away from you. Here are five life-changing ideas that will help you along the way.

1. Become a ski instructor

Most people who embark on a gap year need to work along the way. Paying for a round-the-world ticket and accommodation isn’t cheap, you know! But, anyone can get a job in a bar or cafe. Why not do something that really stands out on your CV? Why not do something that you love? During the winter months of your gap year, take a ski instructor course. By the end of the season, you’ll be guiding new skiers down the mountain, boosting your confidence and teaching skills.

2. Learn a new language

Immersing yourself in a new culture is one of the best things about travelling. You learn so much just by speaking to people who live a different lifestyle. Of course, you can go one step further, and learn their language. It’s certainly a challenge, but you’ll never get such a brilliant opportunity to do so. Mix with native speakers to perfect your dialect and accent. If you choose the right country, this is a skill that could open up career opportunities for you in the future too.

3. Volunteer

As teens growing up in the west, we’ve had a relatively sheltered upbringing. Opening yourself up to the vulnerability of others is a huge life-changing event. It alters the way you think about other people, and the world around you. Volunteering helps develop your sense of compassion, and allows you to use your position for good. Not only that, but you’ll meet some wonderful communities of people, along with dedicated and passionate charity workers.

4. Teach English

Most foreign countries are developing programs for English learning. You can join one of these programs, and help teach the world’s most universal language. It’s a challenging job, but it will help develop your patience and understanding of other cultures. Best of all, it’s a lot of fun, and you’ll love helping children learn a new skill!

5. Write about it

A lot of travellers write a blog about their experiences, and we certainly suggest you do the same. You can do it straight from your smartphone or tablet while on your travels. It will help put your thoughts and experience into context. Plus, it will let your family back home share in your adventures. It could even lead to publication, or the development of a future career.

Whatever you choose, your gap year will be a life-changing experience. It will shape you as a human being, and give you a better sense of the world around you. We hope you enjoy every second of it!