What Are the Benefits of Gap Year Travel Programs?

Gap year programs are a year or semester of experiential learning for students to deepen their personal awareness and gain a broader perspective of the world. Typically taken after graduating high school and before college, gap year travel programs are ideal for students seeking a break from their regular studies. While the specific advantages vary depending on the nature of the program and the individual’s goals, some common benefits of gap year travel programs are personal growth, career exploration, cultural exposure, and new language skills.  

Gap Year Travel Program Benefits 

Head off to college or university feeling refreshed. A gap year program can help you recover from academic exhaustion, explore interests and passions, and ensure you don’t burnout at the beginning of your college career. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to decide what kind of college or university program will suit you best for those who may be unsure of the educational path they want to pursue. Whether you choose another state or another country, a gap year will provide real-world experience, and a different perspective and help you build independence and curiosity. 

Leaving your home, routine, friends, family and everyday comforts is a big deal, and for some, it can be quite challenging at first. However, by stepping out of your comfort zone you’ll be able to overcome challenges and grow as an individual, and with that comes an increased sense of self-confidence, resilience, and awareness that improves your ability to make decisions for yourself. Without the safety net of school or home, you will become more independent which will prepare you for college and life ahead.

The beauty of gap year programs lies in their versatility. Students can choose from language immersion programs, cultural exchange initiatives, service learning work, internships, or even wilderness adventures. These experiences allow you to learn more about yourself and your future goals. You might discover a hidden passion you never knew you had or dive deeper into interests in a way that’s not possible during your first year in a college setting. Gap year travel programs provide the flexibility and freedom to learn about the world in ways that can’t be found in a book or traditional classroom.

Photo by Annika Kendall, Student.

Domestic vs. International Gap Year Programs 

You don’t have to travel across the world to have an inspiring and life-changing gap year. There are plenty of amazing programs right here in the United States. Staying stateside can be less intimidating, allowing you to engage in a new environment or skill without a language barrier or significantly different cultural norms. Domestic experiences usually have lower associated costs than going abroad, you’ll pay less for flights and avoid the hassle and costs of a passport, visas, immunizations, and travel insurance.

If you’re set on traveling outside of your home country, the options are almost endless. Whether you want to live with a homestay family, volunteer for a grass-roots organization, or clarify your career path through an internship, traveling abroad is almost always a remarkable learning experience, but takes a little more pre-planning and a strong spirit of adventure. Ask yourself what side of the world do you want to explore? Is there a certain geographic area that you’ve always wanted to go to? Are you looking to trek across high peaks or explore rainforests?

After you’ve chosen a region, think about what type of experience you’re longing for. Do you want a trip with a homestay? Are you hoping to earn college credit? Is there a language or culture you’ve always wanted to study? Gap years are the perfect time to have new and unexpected adventures, so think about all of the things you want to learn and experience, take a look at what parts of the globe offer that, and narrow your search from those exploratory questions. 

Where There Be Dragons gap year programs are located in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the United States. Our programs offer a unique and transformative experience where students can develop valuable life skills and explore their interests. Learn about culture, social justice, conservation, language, sustainability, history, and community through our three-month or year-long programs. Call 800.982.9203 or contact us today.