In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting University studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for people who decide to do this.

In many countries, it is becoming more common for young
people
to take a
gap
year
between finishing high school and starting
university
studies
.
While
some
people
may view
this
as a chance to take a break, others argue that it is a valuable
experience
that can have both
advantages
and disadvantages.
This
essay will discuss both sides of the argument and provide an assessment of whether taking a
gap
year
is a good idea. There are several
advantages
to taking a
gap
year
.
Firstly
, it can provide an opportunity for young
people
to gain life
experience
and mature before entering
university
.
This
can be particularly beneficial for those who may not yet have a clear idea of what they want to study or do for a career. The
experience
gained during a
gap
year
can help them gain clarity on their goals and make more informed decisions about their future.
Secondly
, a
gap
year
can offer an opportunity for personal growth and development. During
this
time, young
people
can explore their interests, develop new skills, and gain confidence.
This
can help them to become more self-aware and independent, which can be particularly beneficial when they start
university
.
Additionally
, young
people
may use their
gap
year
to travel or work abroad, which can broaden their horizons and expose them to new cultures and perspectives.
While
there are many
advantages
to taking a
gap
year
, there are
also
some potential disadvantages.
Firstly
, taking a
year
off can disrupt a student's academic momentum and make it harder for them to re-enter education.
This
can be particularly true if they do not have a plan for how to spend their time effectively or if they are not motivated to return to their
studies
after a
year
away.
Secondly
, taking a
gap
year
can be expensive, particularly if students decide to travel or work abroad.
This
can add financial pressure and create debt, which can be a source of stress when they return to their
studies
.
Additionally
, there is a risk that young
people
may not use their
gap
year
productively and may waste their time, which can be frustrating and disappointing. In conclusion, taking a
gap
year
can have both
advantages
and disadvantages for young
people
who are finishing high school and starting
university
studies
.
While
a
gap
year
can provide valuable life
experience
, personal growth, and exposure to new cultures, it can
also
disrupt academic momentum and create financial pressures. Ultimately, the decision to take a
gap
year
should be carefully considered and based on individual circumstances and goals.
Submitted by patriciareyesfiguero on

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Answer the 'Advantages and Disadvantages' topic

IELTS advantages and disadvantages questions normally give you a statement and ask you to comment on the advantages and disadvantages of that statement.

Answer structure for the type of essay

  • Introduction
  • Body paragraph 1 – advantages
  • Body paragraph 2 – disadvantages
  • Conclusion

Examples to start your body paragraph:

  • The main advantage is...
  • The disadvantage of this...
  • The main benefit...
  • Despite these advantages...
  • One possible drawback...

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Essentional vocabulary list for IELTS Writing 7+

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • Cultural immersion
  • Life experience
  • Work ethic
  • Career readiness
  • Self-discovery
  • Delayed gratification
  • Intellectual stagnation
  • Financial implications
  • Social dynamics
  • Academic trajectory
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