Taking constructive time out to travel on a gap year abroad is something that is beneficial for individuals of all ages and from all walks of life. It’s essentially time to reflect, giving people the space they need to gain a new perspective and build life experience.
Recent research revealed that more than 230,000 people aged between 18 and 25 take some form of gap year break in the UK. However, it’s not a trend limited to prospective college and university students. People are taking a year out from their everyday lives and careers to pursue an incredible experience. Read on, to discover the benefits of taking a gap year abroad.
Experience a new culture
There are so many different countries and cultures to explore. A gap year abroad offers the ideal time to discover more about the world and raise your cultural awareness to a whole new level.
But there’s more than just a new culture to delve into, you can learn a new craft and even study a new language as part of your journey, particularly if your gap year abroad sees you live in a country where your native language isn’t widely spoken.
Our homestays are excellent options for gap year takers looking to learn more about the country in which they are staying. Booking a homestay as part of your gap year abroad will give you all you need to experience a new culture and become a part of daily life. With a homestay you’ll have support from people local to the area to take you off the beaten track. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a more immersive language learning experience by taking lessons outside of the home.
Develop skills that last a lifetime
As well as learning a new language, a skill that will stay with you for the long haul, a gap year abroad gives you the chance to develop important life skills. In addition to going it alone far from the creature comforts of home, the process of planning and executing a gap year abroad successfully will teach you a number of skills that will serve you well in many aspects of your life. Your global competency will be enhanced, as will your abilities to communicate and adapt quickly - even in challenging circumstances.
Gap year travel will most of all give you the independence and maturity you need to take on anything in life. The commitment, perseverance and passion of those wanting to travel for an entire year are just some of the admirable talents you’ll be able to demonstrate.
Make yourself more employable
You’ll notice that you’ve gained skills and developed talents when you return from your year away. Your family and friends will see the difference too. However, employers and educators can also appreciate these new skills. As Vicky McNeil-Kornevall, the co-founder of WorkingAbroad.com explained in this recent blog post for The Guardian, gap year travel can actually boost your career prospects to make you an even more desirable candidate:
“Do something unusual and learn a skill that will make you stand out from the rest. Or learn a new language. Use the time wisely to do something constructive that will impress potential employers.”
Find and improve yourself
A gap year abroad is a great time to discover something new about yourself. Many people experience enlightenment on their gap year travels. The experience gained through learning and developing new skills or discovering hidden passions is a great starting point for pursuing a new life or new mind-set.
Ready to make your gap year dream come true? Don’t forget to book your homestay by registering with Lingoo today. You can also discover more ideas for your gap year abroad to really make the most of your experience.
