So, You’re thinking of taking a Gap Year?
Good idea! Universities encourage it and employers value it but you need to add purpose to your travel adventures. Think about what you want to get from your time out – whether it’s work experience, volunteering, learning a new language or visiting a particular country.

It's important for you to do your research and plan carefully. Instead of jetting in for a few weeks to stay at hotels, eating where tourists eat and meeting only tourists, you can become part of the place. You'll understand what it's like to work and live in a different culture.

This international experience could be just what your résumé is looking for. It's important for you to do your research and plan carefully. Instead of jetting in for a few weeks to stay at hotels, eating where tourists eat and meeting only tourists, you can become part of the place. You’ll understand what it’s like to work and live in a different culture.

So, are you going to save up enough money to survive for your time overseas or will you need to work as you go to support yourself? If you are going through a company then check what is included. Some will offer your accommodation and food as part of the package, otherwise this will be an extra cost to consider. Check the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide books for an idea of daily living costs. If you want to work then you’ll have to obtain a visa in almost all countries. Permission to work abroad can be hard to come by but there are resources out there to help. The best thing is to check with the embassies online. And be wary of visa companies who 'guarantee' you a job - they may take your money, offer you one horrible position and then leave you.

Whether you are thinking of going to one country or on a round-the-world trip, you should start thinking about creating a rough itinerary, i.e. list which countries/places are you going to, for how long and what you are going to do when you get there. Then find out what visas and vaccinations you are going to need.

If you are going to go with a gap year provider then choose a reputable one that suits you. Don't be afraid to call them up and ask questions – however many times you need to! Consider companies that are members of the Year Out Group – they all offer well-structured year out programmes and sign up to a code of practice. Many of these programmes will have deadlines and application procedures so make sure you check your timings carefully. You may also be able to incorporate these as part of a larger trip – e.g. take a short language course in Mexico, then fly to Asia for some travelling before working in Australia.

IST Plus
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