A gap year is an idea that many may brush off, may overlook, or may not take seriously. Gap years are often thought of as a ‘fallback’ or an alternative if your initial plans fall through. But it can be so much more than that.

Taking a year off can let you revitalize and focus you. It allows an opportunity for you to grow outside of the school environment and provide a fresh outlook on what you want to do, what is important to you and how you want to continue your studies.

You won’t be bored, I promise you. There are countless options for how to spend your year. Some may be more practical than others, but they all will (hopefully) help influence your upcoming decisions concerning what it is you want to do.

Taking more classes is a common option. Working for those extra credits can give you the opportunity to explore those courses you never had the time for before. Maybe you’ve always had a passion for literature? You could try some offbeat English courses. Film? How about a “History of Western Filmmaking”? Taking additional courses allows the opportunity to boost your average and explore some alternative new fields.

Then again, education is expensive. Working could be a good idea. You could work full-time or part-time either working as a barista or something totally unique. Your choice. Regardless, experiencing the workforce can be a positive and eye-opening experience and a little extra cash never hurt anyone.

Maybe you want to see the world before heading back to the library? Traveling is an unforgettable experience. It is one that can broaden your mind, allow you to grow as an individual all while putting a good dent in the money you saved up working for the better part of your year off.

Each can of course be inclusive of the others and each offers the opportunity to learn new skills, learn about yourself, network and hopefully help you decide which path you want to take or any changes you may want (or not want) to make to the one you’re already on.

Your education is not a race. It’s your life. The decisions you make and route you choose will make a huge impact on your future so be sure to take your time and make the right decisions. Some people dismiss the idea of a gap year as a ‘wasted‘ or ‘lost‘ year but if you do it right and make the most of it taking a year off can be an extremely rewarding and eye-opening experience. You won’t regret it!