Gap years

After several years of study, many graduates feel like a well-earned break. The lure of adventures in distant lands is powerful for Australian and New Zealand students, which is why thousands strap on their backpacks each year and head OS.

The meaning of the term ‘gap year’ has evolved in recent years to encompass more than the traditional ‘year-off’ between school and university which it originally referred to. Now, gap year has come to refer to any year-long break – whether taken before, during or after university study – to embark on travel, volunteer or paid work.

Whether you choose to take a gap year – and when – is entirely up to you. Taking a year out before or during your degree can be a good way to give yourself a break and re-energise before the challenges of further study. However, there are also advantages in waiting until you complete your degree. If you are unsure of the direction you want to take career-wise when you graduate, then the year can be well-utilised broadening your horizons and getting in touch with your interests and career inclinations.

Even if you are clear about your career direction, taking time out to spread your wings can be valuable for your personal growth and employability. Employers recognise the added value of staff who have seen a bit of the world. And the fact that you have planned and undertaken a trip is evidence of a range of personal qualities appreciated in the workplace, such as independence, determination and curiosity.
If you want to take a gap year when you graduate but are concerned it will affect your chances of being selected for a graduate program, check with individual employers to see what their eligibility policies are.

Working overseas

The pros*

  • Enhanced résumé
  • Work experience and career opportunities
  • Opportunity to travel in work breaks
  • Knowledge and understanding about other countries, cultures and ways of life
  • Personal and emotional development
  • Cultivation of a global career perspective
  • Adventures galore!

The cons

  • Even a working holiday comes with costs so you have to be financially prepared
  • When you return from your overseas experience it is likely your peers will have made progress in their careers, so be prepared for some catching up!

For some useful information about living and working abroad, and specific country visas and opportunities, see the following websites:
www.smartraveller.gov.au/tips/working_os.html
www.globalexchange.com.au
www.southern-cross-group.org/visas/goingoverseas.html
www.anyworkanywhere.com
www.overseasjobs.com
www.i-to-i.com/tefl
www.jetprogramme.org
www.jobstreet.com
www.contactsingapore.org.sg
www.workingintheuk.gov.uk
www.owh.com.au
www.workinfrance.com
www.workinginbelgium.com
www.prospects.ac.uk
www.aupairinamerica.com
www.job-watch.org.au/jwtraps/jhwo.pdf