So why take time out?

It is important to be clear why you are taking time out to travel. Many people see it as an opportunity to gain experiences before embarking on a specific career or post graduate course, but remember to be clear about why you wish to go.

What will I do?

There are hundreds of possible things to do on a gap year. You may wish to visit a distant country and work in temporary jobs along the way to finance your trip, or gain paid or voluntary work experience in the UK. Alternatively you may wish to develop your existing skills within a foreign language sector. What ever you wish to do there is something for every body.

Consider planning.

For you to make your year out a success you must remember that it is not a means to escape the rat-race, or put off permanent employment, but an opportunity to witness things that you wouldn't usually get a chance to.
Consideration must be given to such matters as;

•Availability of work (which can be difficult to get overseas)

•Working conditions

•Visa and vaccination requirements

•Medical insurance

•Foreign currency restrictions

•Local laws etc.

What are the advantages?

•Broaden your horizons

•Experience different cultures

•Develop qualities such as:

oSelf sufficiency

oSelf awareness

oMaturity

oFlexibility

oIndependence

oThe ability to cope with new situations and challenges

oPeople and time management

What are the disadvantages?

•You may have difficulty financing yourself

•When you return you will also be in competition for jobs from new graduates

•You may lose ground if you wish to pursue a fast moving, technical career

•Some employers may not be impressed

•It can be difficult to re-adjust to normal routine

•Your friends may get ahead on the career path

What do the employers think of taking take out?

•The majority of employers generally feel quiet positive about it, providing that you can demonstrate that your time has been spend constructively and you have gained the kind of skills and qualities that they are looking for.

•Some employers do also have negative opinions on the subject.

If you have any doubts concerning taking time out speak to a careers adviser or check with the employers themselves.

Remember to plan for your return.

Think about what you will do when you return. Career services are there to help and will give you advice on your career path and what action you may need to take on your return.

What to do when you return.

When you return after your trip you would have gained many experiences like self sufficiency, people management and time management. Use your experiences to promote yourself to prospective employers by emphasising the skills that you have developed.