5 benefits of taking a gap year

The latter half of our high school years is usually spent reflecting on what it is that we want out of life, where we see ourselves going and where we eventually want to end up. Some have a very clear vision of and set path for their future, and others, when passions and interests change like they sometimes do, tend to hop onto the next new thing every few months. On whichever side of the spectrum you find yourself, taking a year off to gather your thoughts, to improve yourself, and to gain valuable life skills is probably one of the best decisions you can make – whether you think that you have everything figured out already, or whether you’re still in the process of becoming.

Below we’ve set out 5 benefits of taking a year off from formal education, while still gaining valuable knowledge and experience.

1.You get to know yourself better
During your gap year, you’ll find that both your strengths and weaknesses come to the fore as you explore and conquer new terrain. You’ll be met with new challenges and ways of thinking – things you might not have experienced or thought of whilst sitting in the traditional, structured classroom; especially when some form of academic and practical training is involved. According to Guys Botha, CEO of The Academy for Environmental Learning (AEL), being exposed to approaches such as multidimensional learning that follows a top-down as well as bottom-up approach to learning, will allow for greater problem solving capabilities and independent thinking.

2.You gain perspective

Transitioning from school to university or the like can be a very uneasy and stressful time. However, this process of transitioning often brings about a maturing process. You’ll find that you’ll be able to take control of situations and you’ll view difficulties and challenges as opportunities for growth. This change in perspective and new-found maturity will also enable you to harbour a better understanding of and appreciation for the wider world out there.

3.You’ll be more focused on what you want to do

Time off allows you to do some introspection and to really assess where it is that you want to go. Taking a gap year relieves you from the pressure and high expectations that are often put on you from external sources. It will give you space and the opportunity to calmly mark out your path and to patiently set goals for yourself – at your own pace and at your own leisure.

4.You broaden your knowledge base and skillset

Taking a gap year means you’ll most likely find yourself in places that you wouldn’t usually be in otherwise. This means you’ll often have to adapt to new circumstances and learn new skills in order to function in that particular new environment. At places such as AEL, for example, post-matric students are being equipped with the necessary life skills to foster a true appreciation for the environment, all the while equipping them through academic studies and practical training. Immersing yourself in programmes like these during your gap year that not only enriches you academically, but also personally, will result in you becoming a better-equipped, well-balanced citizen.

5.You’ll be more sought after for internships and jobs

Taking a year off to add to your work experience or to broaden your skillset will definitely make you stand out from the crowd of recent graduates. Recruiters often look for applicants who have gone over and beyond what is expected and/ or necessary. This also gives them an idea of your work ethic and sense of commitment, and shows that you are most likely able to handle pressure.