Like most young people, you want to travel abroad. The opportunity may have arisen via your Erasmus school or partner universities, but you haven’t had the chance to go, or you’d like to go again.
Think of it as a “break” during your studies, before you enter your Master’s program if you don’t know what field you want to specialize in, or at the end of your studies if you want to take a break before entering the world of work.
But this break doesn’t have to mean sitting on your couch doing nothing! Because it’ll look great on your CV! 🤨
Doing an internship
It can give you the experience and confidence you need to enter the world of work. You should know that an internship in a good company with interesting and comprehensive assignments will be a big bonus. On top of that, you’ll be able to stand out in interviews thanks to this experience.
And even better, if you prove yourself as an intern, the company is likely to offer you a position at the end of your internship. 😏
You can do this internship in France or abroad, but you can ask your school for the agreement or search on the Internet for organizations that offer them.
Going abroad
Fancy a real break and a bit of adventure? Grab your backpack 🎒 and go off on your own or with someone else, it’s up to you. Come back with plenty of memories and an exceptional experience to tell. 👉 A little tip: you can WWOOF so you don’t have to pay for accommodation. The principle is brilliant, you work on the farm 🚜 in exchange for a roof over your head. A lot of farms abroad offer this concept, do your research it’ll be one less thing you’ll have to pay for. 💸
If you don’t want to make a big break for fear of not being able to get back to reality. You can join programs abroad. You’ll be able to attend classes 📚, go on outings and trips ✈ and do it all in community with strangers from all over the world. 🌎
Otherwise, if you love children, know how to look after them and really want to improve your language skills, go as an Au Pair. 👧🧒 What does it mean to be an au pair? It’s living with a family, taking part in domestic chores and looking after children in exchange for payment. You’ll have time if you wish to take language classes at the same time, as it’s possible to study and be an Au Pair at the same time. This experience will enable you to travel and discover a country’s culture thanks to the family.
Participate in a humanitarian project
Would you like to make yourself useful and join a cause? Organizations and associations around the world are always looking for volunteers. 🙋♂️ Missions vary from country to country, depending on the skills required. They’ll find something to suit you.
👉 You can do civic service for a few months or a year in your home country or abroad. On top of that, civic service is usually paid. 💸
👉 Or you can join an association directly as a volunteer. This is easier to find than civic service, but you’re unlikely to be paid. On the other hand, in some cases you’ll be provided with accommodation. 🛏
Developing a personal project
Do you have a project that’s been on your mind for a while? 🤷 Now’s the time to get started! If your project is concrete and seems feasible, your school will be willing to support you. But be careful, because when you go back to school, you’re going to have to juggle your professional project with your classes.🤓
⚠ Above all, don’t tell yourself that you’re wasting time by doing a gap year, because on the contrary, you’re gaining time by developing your professional network through internships, travel and the many experiences you’ll have. It will also enable you to develop your skills and language level, complete your CV and refine your career plan.
