How to Know if a Gap Year is For You

Ikaika Hobbs September 2, 2014

I grew up surfing in Hawaii. Whenever I considered what I would do after school, it typically involved dreaming about how I could align what I loved with what I had to do. Here are a few ways to know if a gap year could be for you...

You love to travel

This could almost be a prerequisite of taking a gap year, because you’re bound to travel... a lot. Maybe you’ve taken trips with the family all your life, maybe you’ve gone on a mission trip, or taken off on some other kind of adventure... If travel is your thing or you think it could be your thing, then you’re on the right track.

You love to learn about other cultures and aren’t afraid to try new things

Andrew Zimmer is the host of one of my favorite shows, Bizarre Foods. The entire show is about him trying food that most people will never lay eyes on. On the way, he also jumps in and gets his hands dirty with the local culture. Is that you? Are you down to eat anything, sleep anywhere, and get your hands dirty?

You want to go to college, but you’re not sure what you want to do

There are lots of people who graduate high school and have an idea what they’d like to do... but aren’t 100% set on a career path. Take the time to pop outside of your bubble and gain some new perspectives. You're about to embark on a 4 year investment for the rest of your life, it doesn't hurt to be sure about it!

You want to make a difference

What will really set you a part from the pack is how you see the world. When you turn on the news at home what do you see? When the world around you only sees the problems and negativity, do you see opportunity for you to get involved?

If you find yourself relating to one or more of the things on our list, maybe it’s time for you to consider doing a gap year.