University Advice: Should You Take A Gap Year?
As an architect and former Senior Lecturer with over 15 years of experience, I've seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities students face when transitioning from school to university.
Whether you're applying to college or about to embark on your university journey, this series is designed to provide practical advice to help you make informed decisions.
What is a Gap Year?
A gap year is typically a year-long break taken by students between finishing school and starting university. While traditionally associated with travel, a gap year can encompass a wide range of activities, from work experience and volunteering to pursuing personal interests or learning new skills. It’s a chance to step back, reflect on your goals, and gain experiences that will enrich your personal and academic life.
Common Gap Year Activities
Travel and Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in new cultures, learn a language, or volunteer abroad.
I took a gap of 3 months whilst on my work placement year, after my undergraduate degree. I was working in an architecture firm and felt like I was falling out of love with architecture. I needed a break to do something completely different.
I took the money I’d earned from working for 9 months and bought a flight to KL. I travelled around Asia (Borneo, KL, Singapore) for one month and then spent two months doing the coast of Australia.
I experienced completely different lifestyles and gained a broader perspective on the world. I needed that break, and on a sailing boat just north of the Great Barrier Reef, I looked up at the stars and realised I was ready to get back to work and fall back in love with architecture.
Work Experience
Gain practical skills and insights by working in a field related to your future studies or career. Save money to support yourself during university.
You will likely have to do a work placement as part of your course, depending on where you study, but summer jobs can also give you a huge boost of confidence and experience, and the networking that comes with it will be a huge advantage.
Volunteering
Contribute to meaningful causes, whether locally or internationally. Build a strong sense of community and develop valuable soft skills.
I volunteered in my postgraduate years for the Girl Guiding Estates Committee. I got to advise on the upkeep of buildings, many of which were listed.
Skill Development
Learn new skills, such as coding, photography, or a musical instrument. Take online courses or attend workshops to deepen your knowledge in areas of interest.
Personal Projects:
Start a blog, launch a small business, or work on a creative project. Use the time to explore passions and hobbies that might not fit into your university schedule.
I started this blog and my online shop after my studies but I think that was more down to the time I graduated. Though Etsy was growing in popularity, I don’t recall many people having side hustles like they do now. But I was always entrepreneurial. Making crafts, and art and taking commissions.
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The Benefits of Taking a Gap Year
Taking a gap year can be highly beneficial, both personally and academically.
Here are some of the key advantages:
Increased Self-Awareness: A gap year allows you to explore your interests and passions in a more focused way. This time can help clarify your academic and career goals, ensuring that when you start university, you're more committed and motivated.
Enhanced Academic Performance: Students who take a gap year often return to their studies with a renewed sense of purpose and maturity. The experiences and skills gained during the year can lead to improved academic performance and a more fulfilling university experience.
Improved Employability: Work experience, volunteering, and skill development during a gap year can make you stand out to future employers. You'll not only have practical experience to add to your CV but also a range of transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.
Broadened Perspective: Exposure to new cultures, ideas, and ways of life can broaden your worldview. This expanded perspective can influence your approach to studies and life in general, making you more open-minded and adaptable.
Personal Growth: A gap year is an opportunity for significant personal growth. Whether through travel, work, or self-directed projects, you'll face challenges that build resilience, independence, and confidence—all qualities that will serve you well in university and beyond.
Is a Gap Year Right for You?
Deciding whether to take a gap year is a personal choice that depends on your circumstances, goals, and readiness for university. Here are some questions to consider:
Are you feeling burned out from years of academic pressure?
Do you have clear goals for how you would spend your gap year?
Are you eager to gain work experience or explore the world before diving into university life?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, a gap year could be a beneficial option for you.
Planning Your Gap Year
If you decide to take a gap year, careful planning is crucial to ensure it is a productive and rewarding experience.
Set Clear Goals
Define what you want to achieve during your gap year and when that year ends. Make sure you have thought it through and know if and when you are going back into education. Make the most of this time, you’ll never get it back.
Create a Budget
Plan your finances carefully, especially if you’re travelling or taking unpaid internships. Going to university can be pricey and a lot of students take a gap year to earn money for their student days. It’s a balance-don’t blow your savings on travelling, etc if you won’t have anything left for student life.
Stay Organised
Keep track of your plans, applications, and deadlines. You need to stay in touch with the university you are looking to attend after your gap year. Make sure you don’t miss any deadlines and make plans to be ready to hit the ground running on your first day of term post-gap-year.
Be Flexible
Allow room for spontaneity and unexpected opportunities. Life is full of surprises and opportunities, and your gap year is the time to take them. Adopt a “yes” mentality and see what life has in store for you (within reason).
A gap year can be an incredible opportunity to grow, explore, and prepare yourself for the challenges of university and beyond. Whether you choose to travel, work, or pursue personal projects, the experiences you gain will be invaluable.
If you have any questions about taking a gap year or need further advice on university-related topics, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram or here (contact us).
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