The Gap Year Chronicles: Is It Right For You?
Hey There!
If you're reading this, you're probably juggling the idea of a gap year. Been there, done that! Allow me to share a bit about my own roller-coaster of a gap year, hoping it might give you a clearer picture.
A Bit About Me
Hi, I’m Obada. Fresh out of med school in London, but rewind a bit, and you'd find me in a maze of life decisions, one of which was to take a gap year. Here’s my story.
What’s the Big Deal About Gap Years Anyway?
Initially, people thought of a gap year as that fun year after high school – traveling, volunteering, or just chillin’. But it’s not just for school leavers anymore. Whether you're in between jobs, careers, or just need a breather, a gap year could be your jam!
My Gap Year: The Unexpected Adventure
Honestly, my gap year was unplanned, thanks to some twists and turns life threw my way. But when life gives you lemons, right? I dived head-first into sales, side hustles, and even tried my hand at trading stocks and video editing. Think selling Arabian oils by day and learning video edits by night. A weird mix, but hey, it was my year to experiment!
So, What Did I Get Out of It?
Beyond the new skills and the bit of cash (which was nice!), the year taught me loads about myself. Travelling broadened my horizons, and learning to manage my own time and finances was a game changer, especially when I stepped into the world of med school.
Pros and Cons? Here’s My Two Cents:
The Good Stuff:
- Discovering Yourself: It’s a chance to learn what you really want. No rush!
- Travel on Your Terms: Best way to immerse in new cultures.
- New Skills: From languages to random hobbies, it’s a learning fest.
- That Much-Needed Break: Everyone needs to hit pause sometimes.
- Save Up: If planned well, you can even save some money for later adventures.
The Not-So-Great Stuff:
- Money Woes: It could strain your wallet if you're not careful.
- The FOMO: You might feel you're lagging behind friends in school or work.
- Missing Home: Travel's fun, but homesickness is real.
- Sometimes, Plans Fail: Not every plan or goal will pan out. And that's okay.
Final Thoughts: To Gap Year or Not?
It boils down to what you want and where you're at. For some, it’s a chance to rediscover and reset. For others, it might feel like a delay. The key? Do your thing and plan it out. Whether it’s a full year or a few months, ensure it’s right for you. Trust your journey and make it count.