Expert: Gap year abroad needed for teenagers

A gap year abroad should be taken by any teenager who is not 100 per cent sure what their vocation is in life, according to an industry expert.

Erica Jacobs, a teacher at the George Mason University, told the Washington Examiner that the possibilities were endless with a gap year, ranging from building wells and hospitals in Africa, to volunteering for local organisations.

She added that people can also study a second or third language while they are abroad or carry out other voluntary work for major charities.

"The philosophy behind a gap year is that students have all the mental equipment they need for higher learning, but simply need a sense of mission", she said.

Ms Jacobs also commented that commitment and passion will set gap year students apart from others in their careers.

During a placement on a gap year, youngsters can also learn important skills to prepare them for life at university or in a job, such as fundraising, project planning and teamwork.

Find out about gap year benefits.

( Last Updated: 2010-03-03 15:21:44)