Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
your gap, and whether you are getting value for money. University entrance tutors and em-
ployers will want to see how your gap made a real difference - they will be looking for
commitment, determination to see a project through, planning ability, the ability to think on
one's feet, to assess and manage risks, and to raise money and manage finances. If you've
taken on a short placement just to 'tick the gap-year box', you may find you haven't really
gained these skills at all.
And, while it may be tempting to look for last-minute bargains, there are plenty to reasons
to get organised in good time.
Here, Jon Arnold, of Oyster Worldwide, gives his top five reasons for booking your gap
year early.
1.
Secure your place
- many projects book up months ahead of time, some can book
up as far in advance as a year ahead of departure. If you leave your plans until the
last minute, your chosen project may not be available.
2.
Spread the cost
- the earlier you book the longer you have to raise the money and
save for your gap-year. When booking early you will generally pay a small deposit
to hold your place, with the balance due much closer to departure.
3.
Secure any work permits you need
- if you want to get a paid job overseas on
your gap-year you may need to get a work permit. For certain countries there may
only be a small number of permits available which will run out quickly each year.
As an example, for departures to Canada in November 2014, the work permits ran
out in January 2014 for British passport holders!
4.
Have something to look forward to
- if you are still at school with one year left,
the next 12 months are going to be the toughest of your education to date. Give
yourself some light at the end of the tunnel, book your gap-year early, then you'll
have something to look forward to at the end of all of those exams and essays.
5.
Impress university admissions tutors when applying for deferred entry
- by
planning your gap-year before you apply for university you are really going to
impress the admissions tutors when they look at your application. They will see
someone who is organised, motivated and will have had a worthwhile experience
overseas.
