How To Find Yourself On Your Gap Year

Taking a gap year is the perfect time to blow off steam, have fun and also discover what you’re all about. Open yourself up to new experiences in different countries and, not only will you learn plenty of new things about others, you’ll also learn plenty about yourself.

In this article you’ll find suggestions for the best ways to discover yourself on your gap year, including trying new activities, learning new skills and sampling new cultures.

Open yourself up to different cultures 
When you travel you want to get as much from the experience as possible. One of the ways to do this is to really open yourself up to a new culture. A good way of taking advantage of this opportunity is to sign up for a volunteer project with a reputable organisation like Projects Abroad.

This will give you the opportunity to be in and amongst local people, learning about how they go about their everyday life and experiencing how people do things differently in different parts of the world.

Learn about the world 

Head for far-flung destinations like Ghana, Vietnam and Tanzania to see things you never normally would. There are so many places to visit outside the usual tourist destinations, and you can use your gap year as the ideal opportunity to explore destinations that aren’t the normal holiday spots.

   

Pick up new skills
Travelling to new places not only opens you up to the possibility of developing a new outlook, it also gives you the chance to learn new skills. Volunteer projects help you do this, as you’ll have the chance to try something new or build on experiences you’ve already had.

You could choose a medical, social care, sports coaching or journalism volunteer gap year project. Whichever you decide on, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pick up new skills. 

Discover new activities
New adventures mean new challenges! If you’re heading off on a gap year, this is the time to really embrace your adventurous side and try out new things. It doesn’t matter what that might be, but challenge yourself to see what you’re capable of. It’s the ideal time to have a go at things you’d never normally get the chance to try.

Work with local people
If you decide to sign up for a volunteer placement on your gap year you’ll get the opportunity to work with local adults and children. This will be a real eye opener and will, more than likely, make you feel very grateful for the opportunities you have back home. It’s the chance to do something positive and in return you’ll get an experience that will be unforgettable!