There Can Be Benefits To Taking A Gap Year After High School
For some people, going straight to college after graduating high school isn’t the best option. Whether it’s for financial reasons, or you simply feel burnt out after four grueling years of high school, taking a gap year between high school and college could be a great option for you. However, even though you aren’t in the classroom, you may want to make sure that your gap year doesn’t become a nap year!
Here are a few ideas for ways to make your time off between high school and college productive…
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Get A Part-Time Job During Your Gap Year
If you’re saving up for college, then getting a part-time job is definitely the way to go. However, even if you aren’t trying to finance your education, spending a year working part-time is a great way to strengthen your resume and recover some of your energy after four years in high school. Most college graduates only have experience working in the summers, so having a full year of part-time work experience will put you ahead of the competition after graduation.
Consider Traveling During Your Gap Year
If you have a taste for adventure, then traveling will be an excellent way to spend your time off. Whether you want to spend time immersing yourself in another language or simply seeing the world for what it actually is, traveling is a terrific first-hand knowledge booster. You could consider backpacking with friends, staying in hostels, or enrolling in a gap year program abroad after high school. All of these options are great ways to travel, as a teenager.
Engage in Volunteer Activities During Your Gap Year
Volunteering is another excellent way to spend your time off from school. Whether you choose to volunteer locally or travel to volunteer abroad, finding a project that you believe in will give you a sense of purpose during your time off. As a bonus, consistent volunteering is another way to boost your resume and future job prospects.
Get a Certification During your Gap Year
Although you aren’t formally going to school, there’s no reason to stop learning entirely. Most universities have open courseware on their websites, allowing you to choose one or two courses to take online. By completing these courses, you can add certifications to your resume, which can help make you stand out as a job applicant. In some cases, certifications can even give you college credits.
Consider Independent Study During Your Gap Year
Similar to gaining certifications, an independent study is another way to continue your education during your year off. By developing an individual course of study, typically by curating a list of books to read or online courses to take, you can gain expertise in a subject that you are passionate about, which will help you succeed in college and beyond. Taking an independent approach requires dedication and discipline, but it can be an excellent way to spend your time off, if you commit to completing it.
To learn even more from our Stride Success Coaches, be sure to read the Finding Your Path article, for additional career prep advice.
And, check out the article on How To Make The Most Out Of A Virtual Career Fair, too!
To learn more about Stride Career Prep Success Coaching for teens and how it prepares them for life after high school through career exploration or college readiness, visit this site: https://www.stridelearning.com/career-prep/career-exploration/student-success-coaching.html
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