A gap year abroad is an interlude of exploration and growth far beyond the conventional classroom experience. This article delves into the multifaceted benefits and experiences of a gap year abroad, highlighting how it can be a transformative journey for young adults.

High school is tough, and at times takes a toll on you by exhausting your wits, and no one is to blame, as tough essay writing tasks, homework, and peer pressure can crank your enthusiasm level down. Most students are so focused on their academic achievements that they overlook the importance of their well-being, which is required to survive real life! Here's how you can take a break from anxiety and recharge for the best.

Travelling is one of the most important things you can do, in terms of global understanding, personal growth, and to improve your career. You can explore new places, make friends, or practice new occupations. You’ll learn from the plethora of people you will meet, and learn about different cultures, worldviews, and languages. You’ll have an adventure! You’ll be surprised by what you see and learn, and start to incorporate your new experiences into your own life (Vietnamese coffee, I’m looking at you!).

No matter how old you are, taking a gap year to travel can be one of the most exciting and enriching things you could ever do. Most people do it between high school and college or university, but I have known a few who have done it in the middle of getting their degree, after they’ve gotten their degree, and even when they’re WAAAY past the traditional gap year age group (I met a nearly 40 year old gapper once!).

For American high school seniors (and their parents), the first four months of the new year ring in an especially stressful period – the final throes of the college admissions process. Deadlines for applications arrive, decisions for early action are made, campus visits are made and weighing final selection all add to the angst. “Will I get in?” is replaced by “where will I go?” in the minds of these students.
 

Truth: international experiences change your life. That's why we do it - why we travel, learn new languages, try different foods, fall in love with colors and textiles, walk beaches and ancient paths, explore, make new friends, and keep traveling. International experiences can come in a plethora of forms - study abroad, gap year, weekend travel, year-long RTW trips, cooking classes, couchsurfing, sporting events - the list is endless, which is exciting!