A gap year could see you doing anything from building a school in India to volunteering at an orphanage in Mexico City. It provides a great opportunity to travel, experience different cultures, meet people from around the world and have an adventure. It’s also a great way to pick up a language and develop that language in a wide range of contexts.

Whilst the travelling aspect is highly enjoyable, it’s important to consider your future prospects when planning your gap year. Employers will generally look much more favorably upon those who have chosen to use their time abroad productively, developing new skills that could be employed in your career.

• Here is a list of support organisations that can help you plan your gap year
• Don’t forget to have a look at our case studies to find out how other young people have spent their time abroad
• Have a look at this article about how a year abroad can effect employability