Student guide to gap years - Pros and cons

Taking a gap year is all about the experience you get and the benefits you gain. It will change your life, to put it simply.

PROS: You may gain exposure to cultures you have not experienced before or have the chance to serve others less privileged than you.

Most gap year students develop maturity, learn self-reliance and improve their money management. Enhanced social skills and teamworking ability inevitably come from meeting new people.

CONS: Disadvantages come with a badly planned gap year.

You will also enjoy a much more beneficial experience if you follow all the health and safety advice available, particularly when travelling to remote countries.