Taking a gap year after graduation is becoming common among high school students in many countries. I believe that while a one year break enables young people to expand their mindset and to be financially independent, addiction to money from an early age and social isolation can be the drawbacks.
The majority of graduated students are taking a gap year just because they have not chosen their major properly after intensive studies. While not studying at university for a year, young people are preferring to travel abroad. Consequently, they are understanding the cultures, histories and traditions of different nations. By interacting with other international individuals, the young generation is expanding their mindset and perception of the world, allowing young people to explore their true passions. In addition, working part-time has become common, especially among people who have finished school. Despite low salaries, gap year students, who have been relying on their parents’ income, learn to be financially stable and spend money wisely.
However, those who experienced financial challenges during high school often take a gap year just to earn some money and help their families. Even though it can be advantageous, there is a high risk of continuing low-income career and underestimating the opportunities of university. In other words, graduated individuals are more likely to prioritize short term income over their later career after their gap year. In addition, students can be socially excluded if they do not study anywhere. In Uzbekistan, for example, there is a misconception about taking a gap year among society as people are prone to think that the student could not get into university due to his or her lack of knowledge. As a result, they show no respect to those who take a gap year, making students socially isolated.
In conclusion, deeper understanding of the world and being financially independent allow students to grow as an independent person, while social exclusion and risk of preferring low income jobs for the rest of their lives can be the drawbacks.