In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high

school and starting university studies.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.
Take a gap year
Advantages:
- Take a break after high school years distress
- Work & travel have first-hand experience
helps decide/ make a better decision on university choices
Many high school leavers are uncertain about their passion (i.e.: they are not sure which major
to pursue in university). Working in the real work gives them the exposure/knowledge about
what the job entails (working environment, competitiveness, opportunity for development) and
thus informs them about what to expect in certain jobs better decisions
May be a good platform for future job prospects (eg: if you create a good first impression
during your work experience, you may be at an advantage when applying for jobs at the
same employer after university graduation)
- Some students a chance to earn money to fund their university education (to reduce the
financial burden on their family)
Disadvantages:
- Finance
o Unable to find the initial fund for travelling or (unpaid) work
o Not a viable option for low-income students
- Safety
o IF travelling to/working in a new country with a new culture, foreign language? (if not
English), no/ few acquaintances
- Lack of clear intention/purpose this may become a waste of time (because you are unable to
utilize this time to experience more and challenge yourself)
o