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2ND DEC 2008
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Money is the most important factor to consider once you have decided to take a gap year. Chances are, you'll have to work in order to save up enough cash before you go on your travels. Fortunately, many gap year organisations provide support to help you raise the necessary funds, and some schemes offer living expenses, food and accommodation. Another option is to work for a few months at home to save for your travels and then spend a shorter time globetrotting.
 If you plan on volunteer work joining an organised programme, you'll be expected to work and to shoulder considerable responsibilities. For instance, you may find yourself teaching in a school in a remote corner of Africa, and will bear much responsibility towards others. Ask yourself if this is what you want, and if you'd enjoy this kind of responsibility. If the answer is a definite 'yes,' then get planning!
Taking a gap year after finishing exams, can give you a welcome break, and a fresh view on the remainder of your studies. It may allow you to earn and save for your time at university, plus it can give you a feeling of social and financial independence. Universities and employers recognise the benefits of a year out, and will probably look favorably at those who have spent their time out constructively. Be aware Employers and colleges will probably take a dim view of applicants who are unable to show that at least some of their year out was spent in a productive and organised fashion. It's easy to let a year drift by without you having much to show for it. Be aware that a gap year is not all about sipping cocktails on remote beaches.
 Be aware a year out may well prove to be a life-changing experience. This is by no means a bad thing, but make sure you understand as best you can, how this decision may affect you later on. Also if you've chosen to spend the year working you may have become used to the benefits of a regular wage. It may not be easy to get used to the hardships of student life!
Kristine took a year out, not from education or work, but a violent marriage. She headed for Greece where during the evenings she worked as a waitress. Spent the nights staring at the sea, and her days with two Americans, an Australian and a local priest building an orphanage upon the top of the hill. She saw this as a pivotal time in her life, and that her work on the much needed orphanage would be her mark upon the world if she never achieved anything again. She returned to Germany a very different woman than the one who had fled a year before.
Whatever you decide to do, there is no doubt it will be a time of your life you will never forget. Many of the friends you make will be closer than you could imagine. You will, with few exceptions, have a wonderful time.
Related Articles
Student advice about working contracts abroad
Provided by The Student Zone (United Kingdom)
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