Why You Should Spend Your Gap Year In Canada
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Why You Should Spend Your Gap Year In Canada
Canada is a large country that offers a plethora of unique places for you to explore so you can have a memorable experience. From the Atlantic to the Pacific, and even deep into the Arctic Ocean, the country’s landscape is not only mesmerizing, but it is also unmatched among other countries around the world.
The country has such a large landmass with many areas have yet to be explored, so, if you are looking for the perfect way to spend your gap year, why not consider Canada?
What Is A Gap Year?
Although it is not normal for recent high school graduates in the United States to take a gap year, many other countries around the world embrace this idea, especially Canada.
So, what exactly is a gap year? It is simply the year after a person has graduated from high school. Students can also take a gap year during or after college as well. It is the time in which a student takes a break from school. Many people typically take one gap year, but it is up to each individual to do what is best for them.
One of the primary reasons people choose to take a gap year is because it gives them a chance to find out who they are. Also, taking this time will help a person perform better academically whenever they do decide to enroll in college.
Many people believe that the longer a person is away from an academic environment, the harder it will be for them when they return to school. However, statistics have shown that students who take a break during their studies improve their overall grade point average. Simply put, a break will:
- Help you find a career path you love
- Help you start school mentally refreshed
- Help you stay motivated
- Help you find a new passion or hobby
- Help you learn more about the world you live in
Students who take a gap year will quickly learn that there is a huge world outside of their social and physical boundaries. As society moves closer to being a global community, a gap year can provide the opportunity to interact with different cultures, learn new languages and travel the world. Some students take advantage of this opportunity by volunteering abroad or partaking in environmental volunteering in different countries.
With that said, why should a person choose to take their gap year in Canada?
Canada Is The Ultimate Destination For Travelers
By far, Canada offers more sights and adventure than its neighbors to the south (The United States and Mexico). Whether it is exploring the mountain peaks, or simply letting your journey take you through the streets of Montreal, Canada is the second-largest country on the map with tons of natural and man-made beauty. It should be included on any gap year travel bucket list.
Become A Ski Instructor
If you enjoy the cold weather of winter, Canada is the travel destination for you. However, while you are enjoying the cold and snowy conditions, you can also get trained, get hired and get paid for your services.
In less than two months you can train to become a CSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor in Whistler Blackcomb. Once you are trained, you can get hired and teach adults and children how to ski during the entire season.
Work In The Canadian Rockies
For those who are looking for the best balance of working hard and playing hard, there are always employment opportunities in Canada’s hospitality industry.
In fact, you can almost guarantee employment in one of the hotels in the Canadian Rockies before you even arrive in Canada. This type of job will allow you to enjoy snowboarding and skiing on the days you do not have to punch in at the time clock.
The jobs that are available for most students taking a gap year are entry-level positions such as:
- Housekeeping
- Dishwashing
- Cleaning tables
- Host/Hostess
- Waitstaff
Working during the ski season in the Canadian Rockies is an experience that many wait a lifetime for. Not only will you be able to socialize and meet new people during your gap year, but it will also be a great way to boost your resume when you are ready to attend college or get a job in your chosen career path.
However, keep in mind that you will need to obtain a Canadian Working Holiday Permit before you apply for a job. Since it can take some time getting this type of permit, it is best to begin the permit application process so you will not have to deal with any delays when seeking employment.
Internships
Are you looking for a business-related internship that will give you real-world knowledge of the business world? Look no further than the Intern Group. This is the best way to get ahead in business by creating a powerful business network. The bonus is that you can do this while still enjoying your gap year.
With the internship program that is in Canada, you will not only get plenty of professional development, but you also learn about cultural immersion.
Toronto is one of the international hubs in Canada for human resources, culture, business, and finance. This program is offered in Toronto several times a year.
It is important to keep in mind that not everyone who applies for this program is accepted. However, if you are accepted, you should be prepared to have the business and internship experience of a lifetime.
Gap Year With A Purpose
Maybe you have chosen to volunteer or surround yourself with the arts during your gap year instead of work. There are plenty of volunteering programs to choose from in Canada.
One of these programs is Up With People. This offers a multi-destination gap year for participants who are interested in volunteering, arts, theater or social action.
This company offers students a learning experience that is in-depth and experiential. Once you have completed the program, you will be able to navigate the complexities of the world in both your personal and professional lives.
Programs begin in January and July every year, and they highlight:
- International Travel
- Cultural Immersion
- Academic Credit
- Volunteering Abroad
Gap years have become more common as students are no longer feeling required to continue their educations on someone else’s terms. Students are realizing they can live their lives traveling the world, and these travels will help them to become better students and better global citizens.
Canada is a beautiful country with so much to offer travelers who are ready to embrace their gap year and all the experiences that are waiting for them.
