Nowadays, many students choose to take a gap year before entering university in order to travel or gain work experience. Some people think it is beneficial, while others believe that it is simply a waste of time. In this essay, I will discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year and give my opinion.
On the one hand, a lot of students choose the wrong career path and later decide to change, so taking a gap year can help students develop practical skills, understand workplace culture, and choose a suitable career path. For instance, many people choose to study law due to family pressure and high salaries. However, after graduation most of them realize that this is not the right field for them and switch to careers in marketing, business or economics. Moreover, students can broaden their horizons by learning about different cultures and languages. In addition, activities such as volunteering abroad or working in companies can teach them to become more adaptable and independent.
On the other hand, travelling can be expensive. Moreover, some people may spend their money on leisure activities without gaining any valuable experience. Furthermore, they can forget acquired knowledge and academic skills after a long break. For example, most students may find it difficult to return to study and become less familiar with exam preparation.
In conclusion, as I highlighted about, taking a gap year has many advantages for students. Students are often unsure about their future career and taking a break is a good way to prepare and get acquainted with universities. However, students should also consider their family’s financial situation before deciding to take a gap year.