Taking a gap year after high school graduation to work or travel has become some students’ choice. Although this offers a variety of advantages for learners, it is not without its drawbacks.
There are two main benefits of this one year gap between high school and the university. Firstly, it helps the students to make a better decision for their future which may be applying for a university or becoming self-employed. When they spend this one year on working, they become familiar with the workplace which has both difficulties and benefits which can broaden their horizon and help them decide whether they like to start their own business or continue studying at university. Secondly, they gain a valuable experience if they spend this gap on traveling. This is because they were less likely to have this opportunity before due to high schools’ short period intervals, but in this one year they are able to travel wherever they like without stress to experience a variety of cultures and enjoy their life which would be beneficial for their mental health.
However, there are two possible disadvantages of working or traveling after the high school. First of all, working would be quite challenging or unpleasant for students as it is their first experience. The reason is that workplace is usually well-organised which some students are not used to because of their previous easygoing life style. Additionally, there are some strict rules at the workplace which may be found difficult by some of them to obey due to the comfortable atmosphere that they used to live in for at least 18 years. So, as it is their first impression with this place, it can be quite unpleasant for them. Secondly, Traveling could also become challenging for them. This comes from the years that they have been supported by their parents which means that they may be unable to live independently. This lack of independence can cause some problems while living alone in foreign countries and it may reduce their visits’ enjoyment.
In conclusion, although the one year gap between high school and university allows students to gain a valuable experience of other cultures and have a better road map of their future, it has its own challenges.