Gain Experience During a Gap Year

Are you a secondary or post-secondary student? Feeling uncertain about the road ahead?

You are not alone. In grade 12, Alexandra felt that way too. “I had good grades, but I was unsure if I wanted to go to university or study social work like I had planned.” Like many students, Alexandra decided to take a gap year.

What is a gap year?

According to the Canadian Gap Year Association, a gap year is an intentional period of time spent away from formal education for a young person to get “real-world” experience and understand who they are outside of a classroom. It can be taken right after secondary school or in between post-secondary studies.

Why take a gap year?

For some students, it is an opportunity to gain work or volunteer experience, upgrade courses for post-secondary admissions, save money and plan their careers.

In Alexandra’s case, it changed her entire career path.

During her gap year, she travelled to British Columbia and worked at a mental health clinic. Not long after, she realized she wanted to study psychology and is now a behavioural therapist. “My gap year not only changed my career choice, but it gave me perspective on many things.” Alexandra also credits that gap year for teaching her valuable skills such as managing a monthly budget, problem-solving and adaptability. She also gained a strong perspective on cultural sensitivity and communication.

For parents, a gap year can seem like a step back, or that their youth will lose academic momentum and struggle to return to their studies. Talk to your youth and listen to why they are considering a gap year. They may be experiencing academic burnout or feel uncertain about what career they want to pursue. See resources on taking a gap year to learn more about the process. And visit the WorkBC.ca job board to see possible work opportunities.

A gap year can be a valuable part of a youth’s life experience, but it is important to have a plan. Whether you are a parent or a youth, take the time and work together to develop a plan that will make a gap year productive and fun.