Suggestions for filling your year

Now that results are out the way, if you have not done it already, it might be time to plan the next step. Some of you might be waiting to go off to university later, maybe you have decided you need a break for the year, or maybe the year just has not gone as planned.  

If your plans are not working out for this year, it is always best to stay positive and accept that you have to find ways to make the most of the year as map your way forward.

In the meantime, if you are taking a ‘gap year’ or short leave from life, here are a couple of ways you could spend your time. The extreme end would be to go off somewhere for the year, on one of those gap year programs organized globally. But if that is not an option, there is a lot you could do right here.

·    Learn something new

How about learning something new, a new language, a new instrument, picking up a new hobby, learning a new skill and unlocking your creativity.

There are colleges and language centres around that offer day and evening classes in some of the popular languages, French, Spanish and Portuguese. While learning a new language this will be a worthwhile opportunity to make new friends and learn about a different culture.

Volunteer

There is nothing as fulfilling as taking a moment out to give back to your community or the people around you. Take a moment to visit homes, to spend time with children and old people some of whom often feel neglected and isolated from the rest of society. 

On a particular visit to an old people’s home, one woman could not stop narrating her story about her life, her children and grandchildren and how much she longed for precious moments with them. Some people out there simply just need to talk and have someone keep them company even for an hour. 

Another way of volunteering is approaching your former high school and offering your services if you are particularly skilled at a certain sport for example. You could assist by coaching one of the sports teams or offering a hand in any club or society.

·         Gain some work experience

To keep you busy another option could be to find a job. That way you will be able to earn your own money while gaining professional work experience. Jobs are not always easy to come by but this should not stop you. If you know anyone you could approach, try to get at least a month opportunity to see what happens in the professional world. This will prepare you for the future while allowing you to gain experience to make informed decisions about your studies and career.

You could also think of creative ways to earn money, perhaps by selling something, tutoring, or finding a project to exercise your entrepreneurial skills.

Finally another option to ensure the year is productive is to pick up a certificate course or diploma that could give you leverage into degree programs and courses you may be eying. This will keep you mentally stimulated and give you an advantage in your first year. Likewise if you are not able to go onto university the following year, at least you will have the assurance that you have used your year productively.

Overall the aim is to make the most of the year, have fun, build long lasting friendships, engage and enter the following year prepared and fulfilled.