Experiences Gap Year

5 reasons why taking a gap year abroad is a great idea!

Last update: 8 November, 2024  ◦  20 October, 2023 by Photo from Lisa Lisa  ◦  4 minutes reading time
picture in the train / tram

Are you stressed about what to do after high school or after your studies? Do you not know which direction you want to go in, or are you just ready for something new? Well, wait no longer, toss those doubts aside, and embrace the idea of an epic gap year abroad! During this incredible adventure, you'll not only explore the world but, more importantly, discover yourself! Grab that suitcase and let the adventure begin! 🌍

1. Personal growth 

When you take that leap of faith and decide to work abroad, a world of new experiences opens up to you. You will not only learn about the world and your job but, most importantly, about yourself. Spending a whole year abroad might feel like a giant step, but believe us, this is an opportunity you shouldn't let pass you by.

You'll be immersed in a new culture and language, which sometimes forces you to step far outside your comfort zone. But it's precisely in that unknown territory that you'll develop in ways you never thought possible. You'll learn how to find accommodation in a foreign country, how to communicate in a different language, how to adapt to a new (work) culture, and how to independently solve problems when the unexpected happens. This step not only enhances your personal growth but also deepens your understanding of other cultures and worldviews. You'll encounter different mentalities and perspectives, making your own worldview richer and broader than ever before. In short, an adventure abroad is an opportunity that will change your life forever. Are you up for it? 💪✨

2. Pursuing hobbies abroad

During your gap year abroad, besides work, you'll have plenty of time to explore new hobbies. What about surfing in Lisbon or practicing yoga in a park in Valencia? Let your passion run free! For instance, consider joining a sports club, whether you were already an avid athlete in your home country or not. Who knows, you might discover a completely new sport that captivates you. What's even better is that you'll quickly build new friendships during and after sports activities. This enriches and makes your foreign adventure even more memorable!

However, perhaps you're more inclined towards a quieter pursuit. Why not learn a new language? Because let's face it, how amazing is it to be able to chat with the locals in their own language? Start with a language course, the ideal way to get the basics down. Plus, you'll meet people you might never have met otherwise, and they could become lifelong friends. The beauty of learning a language is that you can immediately apply it in your daily life, making the learning process even more enjoyable. And as a bonus, you can proudly add your new language skills to your CV. Win-win! 🌟🗣️

3. What do I really want? 

Making the decision about your college major or changing your career path can be incredibly challenging. There are numerous options for different academic and career choices. You could rush into a decision, but do you really know what you want? Taking some extra time can help you make a more carefully considered choice. This is where a gap year comes in handy. During this year, you won't just be sitting around waiting; you'll be out there exploring! With a gap year abroad, you can figure out what you like and don't like. Working abroad not only allows you to gain new knowledge but also helps you earn some income! For instance, you can save up for your future education or your next adventure. Choose a job that suits you and discover what you enjoy!

4. Boost your resume

A gap year abroad presents an incredible chance to build relevant work experience, providing on-the-job training and the acquisition of future-proof skills. By selecting a job that aligns with your interests, you'll not only accumulate valuable experience but also gain clarity on where your true passions lie. In essence, a gap year abroad acts as a dynamic stepping stone toward a better-informed and more confident future! 🚀💼

5. Set goals 

When choosing a gap year, it's invaluable to set clear goals for yourself. These goals can range from finding the right academic path to discovering your ideal job. Perhaps you want to learn to be independent or dream of speaking a new language fluently. Formulating these goals provides you with direction and purpose during your gap year. With clear goals in mind, you can now think about what you want to achieve during your gap year abroad. Which country appeals to you the most, and what type of job aligns best with your goals? Making these choices will add even more shine to your gap year and help you make the most of this amazing experience. Do you need some more inspiration? check out Dalicia’s amazing gap year adventure in Lisbon!

So, what are you waiting for? The world is at your feet, ready to be explored! 🗺️

Check out our job opportunities abroad to get a good overview of all the possibilities!