In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or
travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university
studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who
decide to do this.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Taking a “gap year” off between high school and university
has become a popular option among many young people. This time off
provides a break after many years of formal study. Some students use
this time to travel around the world, others volunteer and still others
begin working. The idea behind each of these activities is to do
something hands-on and refreshing, which enables young people to learn
more about themselves and their place in the world around them.
The benefits of taking a year off are plentiful. On a
personal level, students who travel away from home develop their
independence and self-confidence. On a cultural level, they learn about
viewpoints, traditions and perspectives different from their own.
Professionally, students get a taste of diverse workplaces, which might
inspire a possible career interest. Intellectually, they examine their
own beliefs and ideas in relation to those of others in a new
environment. All these advantages combine to make a strong case for
taking the one-year break.
Nevertheless, there are also dangers involved in taking such a
long break. Academically, the main drawback is that students can get
sidetracked from their studies. A year is a long time and students could
lose the good study habits and sense of discipline they had when they
were in a formal academic structure. If they begin working, they could
also be deluded into thinking that they’re making a lot of money. They
could lose the benefit of college or university education and the chance
to earn a higher income all their lives.
In conclusion, whether to take a year-long break or not is an
individual decision. Each young person should consider his or her
motivations carefully and decide on what’s most desirable. Time is a
precious resource and people of all ages, including young people, should
treat it with respect.
(305 words)
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