You may consider a gap year as an option if you are undecided about what you want to study, or if you wish to gain work experience before embarking on tertiary studies.
Spending time working in an industry can help you decide if it is the direction you want to take.
A gap year doesn't have to be about work; it's also a chance for self-discovery. You may choose to take some time off to travel and experience new things.
This will help you discover more about your likes and dislikes so you can be confident you've chosen the right track to a career you'll enjoy.
There are endless ways in which you can fill your gap year. Your choice can include travel, volunteer work, internship, and sport, learning a language, a study or a combination of these activities. Whatever you choose, one thing is certain – your adventure will give you the chance to gain in-depth knowledge of another culture and of yourself.
- Study Abroad: You can take a short-term summer program, or apply for a position in an exchange program that specializes in study opportunities abroad – this can also be done as part of your undergraduate or postgraduate degree. This can be for a semester, a year, for your Bachelor or your Masters.
- Internship: Allows work experience abroad. There are various projects and organisations which provide internships in fields ranging from medical & healthcare to journalism. You can also combine academic study and work experience.
- Volunteering abroad: is the best option if you are seeking meaningful work and for service or social causes. Volunteering roles are available in teaching, child care, social work, conservation, community development, medicine, human rights, journalism, international development, language courses and more.
- General language courses: are available throughout the whole year. Although the Dutch are considered to be one of the best foreign English speakers, many chose to do an English program. Living and learning English abroad can elevate your English level from ‘Good’ to ‘near Native’ level.
- SPORT: is a fantastic way to fill your gap year. Whether you’re an elite hockey player or a social tennis player – playing sport in another country is a fantastic way to meet the locals and learn the local traditions and customs.
- Scholarships: There are various scholarships opportunities during your gap year. You will however need to plan ahead at least 1 – 1 ½ year in advance.
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