Taking a gap year is something that is not always encouraged within our culture, but a year off from your studies can be more beneficial than you think. The pressures of success make it a race to finish school and find a good job, but the burnout is a reality faced by many of us. A gap year provides the opportunity to reorient and realign your goals, all with the intent to come back next year better than ever. 

A year away from school may seem daunting, but it’s better than pursuing an education that you’ve all but lost interest in. You are not going to fall behind your peers. We all become successful at our own pace. By allowing yourself to take a break, you’re giving room for new passions and interests to develop. Take the time to work, travel and explore other hobbies. If you use that time wisely, you’ll likely come back refreshed and re-motivated.

After finishing my first year of college, I took 2 years off to work and travel. In just a few months, I had saved up enough money to buy my first ticket abroad. I went to Iceland and was instantly hooked. During this time, I managed to explore 16 countries, making countless memories and friendships in the process. I was in love with the concept of travelling. It was an incredible feeling to wake up in a brand-new city with the ability to do absolutely nothing, and everything. 

At the time I knew I would eventually go back to school, but I was happy traveling until then. It was in Costa Rica when I had a chance encounter with a recent graduate where I rediscovered my passion for learning. Through our conversations, he had helped me develop the confidence I carry with me today. We had traveled together for a week or so and then said our goodbyes at Christmas. When I got back home I re-enrolled in the following spring semester, changed my major and haven’t doubted it since.

I was lucky to have this experience, but something like this isn’t exactly uncommon. By traveling you’ll meet plenty of individuals that will leave an impact on your life in different ways. The adventures you share with the people you meet through a gap year are unforgettable. All of these experiences help you grow tremendously, and often you’ll find new interests or philosophies as a result. You might even find that thing you never even knew you’ve been searching for.

If you think you are in a position where time off could benefit you, don’t be afraid to try it. If you want to travel but are unsure of where to start, there are plenty of programs that make it easy. Volunteering can help you travel on a budget. Programs like Woof and Helpx match you to your dream position in any country you’d like. These programs are generally free, and in exchange for 15-20 hours of work per week you get a warm bed along with three square meals a day. You’ll likely meet people traveling around the world with programs like this. Odds are most of them are in the same position you are right now.

I would encourage everyone to take a semester or two off before they enter their career. Take the time while you still can, because once you land your dream job you won’t have any time left. Travel before you have too many commitments. Go adventure. It’s way cooler to do this while you’re still young anyways.