5 things to do in your gap year

By Stuti Saria

A gap year is a great opportunity to relax and take some time for yourself. It offers you the opportunity to gain skills and experiences, while giving you time to reflect and focus on what you want to do next. A productive gap year can be a substantial addition to your resume as one of the things that employers value most are your experiences. Here are five things to do to make the most out of your gap year: 

1. Volunteer 

Volunteering activities, besides giving you an opportunity to support a worthwhile cause, looks great on a resume. You’ll get to learn new skills, develop a sense of community, and build your confidence. You could take part in environment conservation programs, au pair programs, teach children, or help build schools in underdeveloped areas. 

• ConnectFor - https://www.connectfor.org/

• Red Cross: www.redcross.org

2. Travel 

Travelling is one of the most popular activities to do in your gap year. A vacation can be a great way to relax and explore your interests. Explore the world, learn about new cultures, and develop your independent living skills. Remember, you took this time to discover yourself! 

• Nols - https://www.nols.edu

• Outward Bound - https://www.outwardbound.org

3. Start a business

A gap year can give you the time to put your entrepreneurial skills to use and start your own business. It is a great opportunity to demonstrate and sharpen your initiative, creativity and confidence. You can brainstorm business ideas, do your research, write a business plan, and even pitch it to investors! 

• Ycombinator - www.ycombinator.com

• TiE: www.tie.org

4. Get your hands dirty

Learn a new language, take up part time courses, or learn how to code. These skills can benefit you in college. Fluency in a major international language can be especially helpful if you are planning to study abroad. You could also learn a programming language that will help you with the major(s) you want to pursue in college. Python, MATLAB, R, Julia, and Java are some popular ones. 

• Harvard University: https://online-learning.harvard.edu/catalog

• Coursera: www.coursera.com

5. Gain some work experience 

Work experience is one of the most sought after things on your resumes when it comes to employment. You could use your gap year to gain relevant experience for a potential career or subject you want to study. Work placements or internships can last from a few weeks to a year and depending on the contract, you may or may not receive a stipend. 

Here are some successful examples: 

• Companies in India -

  Skillmatics: www.skillmaticsworld.com 

  Kika: www.kicaactive.com 

• Groups globally recognized -

  Conde Nast: www.condenast.com 

  LVMH: www.lvmh.com

Take a consultation with Raay Education today to be guided to more companies in your field!