The traditional gap year between leaving school and starting university or between university and the working world, has been a rite of passage for young people since the 1960s. From the ‘Hippy Trail’ of the 70’s, to carrying out voluntary work abroad, to simply 
relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Thailand, there was a gap year to suit every inclination.
But with competition for university places at an all-time high, many school leavers now feel they’re better off ignoring the temptations of foreign climes, and nailing down that place at uni as soon as possible. This is a great shame, as many young people are now missing out on a chance to experience a world outside of the insular environment of hard study, and broaden their knowledge of different cultures across the globe.
In fact, a gap year abroad shouldn’t harm your university application at all. Rather, it can have the positive effect of showing a desire to grow, develop and learn that should characterise the university experience. Most universities still look favourably on students who have taken time out to gain a better understanding of the world around them, just as long as their trip has demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and understanding, rather than just a thirst for the local booze.
One of the best ways to explore other countries and cultures is to volunteer abroad, and integrate yourself into the heart of local communities by working alongside the local population. Not only does this give you a real insight into the daily existence of those living in different parts of the world, but you will be able to make an active difference in the lives of the people you are staying with.
Less developed countries in particular can be damaged by excessive tourism, and taking part in a volunteering program can help redress some of the damage caused by package tours that forgo local produce for Coke and McDonalds, and stay in chain hotels run by overseas companies. Volunteer work abroad that helps develop local infrastructure, or aids those unable to profit from tourism is essential in ensuring that local cultures survive in the wake of mass-tourism. Plus, it also demonstrates an aptitude for hard work and a willingness to help others which may impress on your university application.
Sadly, those looking for communities in need of volunteers will find plenty of options. Even relatively wealthy countries like Brazil and South Africa have serious problems with poverty and wildlife conservation, while the need for medical aid, sanitation and sustainable building work in less developed countries like Cambodia and Tanzania is as great as ever. Volunteering companies have a range of options for those who want to work abroad, and typically identify destinations across Africa, less developed parts of South-East Asia and South America as the areas most in need.
However, it’s also worth remembering that these countries are also home to some of the most incredible sights, sounds and experiences on Earth, and while volunteering may be hard work, the sight of a beach sunset, taste of the local cuisine or smell of saffron on the breeze is all the better for feeling that you’ve earned it.
In terms of the sort of work that’s needed, again, take your pick. From the basic toil of building wells and schools or helping to dig roads, to complex wildlife conservation projects, helping to teach disabled children and sports coaching, there are a huge variety of projects that you can assist on. This gives gap year volunteers the opportunity to find a volunteering project that relates in some way to their choice of degree, or their future employment plans. For example, anyone interested in the natural sciences can gain invaluable hands-on experience monitoring sea turtles in Costa Rica or working on a conservation project in the Amazon. Similarly, those interested in studying politics or international development, or working for an NGO would benefit hugely from working on community projects where they will come face-to-face with fundamental problems almost immediately.
Volunteering abroad provides a fantastic opportunity to discover new cultures, see some of the world’s most fascinating countries and add some invaluable experience to your CV or university application while help some of the poorest people on Earth. When put like that, the decision to eschew a gap year and head straight to university for fear of missing out on a place looks hugely short-sighted.
The traditional gap year is dead. Long live gap year volunteering.
Hi, my names Sarah and I write articles about travel and student lifestyle and love sharing tips and advice.