You Decide: Is A Gap Year Right For You?

Your assignment is to choose the response that best describes you from the options given below:

1. When it comes to making decisions, I typically:

(a) know what I want and decide promptly

(b) take some time to decide

(c) avoid making a decision as long as possible

2. During my lifetime, I have:

(a) extensively traveled many countries

(b) visited some countries with my parents during summer vacations

(c) traveled rarely

3. While in school, I have:

(a) worked at various jobs when time allowed

(b) done some work but not frequently

(c) done little or no paid work

4. During my teenage years, I:

(a) frequently participated in volunteer work both in the UK and internationally

(b) volunteered domestically and occasionally abroad

(c) prioritized academics and did little or no volunteer work

5. My parents tend to:

(a) let me do as I please

(b) provide some freedom with limits in place

(c) heavily restrict my behavior and personal space

6. My parents’ career expectations for me:

(a) are minimal, leaving it up to me

(b) are moderate with implicit pressure towards certain jobs

(c) are strict, only wanting me to pursue specific careers

7. My level of certainty for my future job and career:

(a) is high

(b) is moderate

(c) is uncertain

Scoring: Choose (a) for 3 points, (b) for 2 points, and (c) for 1 point.

If your score is between 18-21, you may not require a gap year unless you feel unfulfilled in a particular area. This test suggests that you have a clear plan for your study and career path. Additionally, you have gained independence, experience, and confidence through travel and work, which are the main benefits of a gap year. A gap year may not be necessary. However, you may feel a gap in your experience after two years of university and consider taking a gap year.

If your score is between 12-17, there may be some aspects of your life that remain unfulfilled, and a well-planned gap year could benefit you. It appears that you have developed in some areas but not others. If you have no clear idea of your career path, but have traveled, employment during your gap year may be a viable option. If you haven’t traveled a lot, then traveling could broaden your perspectives. If you’ve had a managed life so far and crave a challenge before university, volunteering in a developing country could be beneficial. The gap year you select should address the deficits in your experience.

If your score is between 7-12, a gap year could be highly beneficial. You lack clarity regarding your career path and don’t seem to have a broad range of life experiences. You should prioritize which areas/experiences you wish to work on, such as gaining work experience or immersing yourself in other cultures. Perhaps working abroad would allow you to address your work and travel experience gaps simultaneously. Cary L Cooper, CBE, is a professor of organizational psychology and health at Lancaster University Management School.