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 young people who decide to do this.

The
gap
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year
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, a concept where young people take a
year
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off between high school and
university
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to work or travel
,
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apply
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is increasingly popular worldwide.
While
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this
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practice offers significant benefits, it
also
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presents certain challenges that merit consideration. The advantages of taking a
gap
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year
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are numerous and impactful.
Firstly
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,
this
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period allows young individuals to gain practical, real-world experience which can enhance both their personal and professional development.
For example
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, volunteering abroad not only broadens their worldview but
also
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instills a sense of responsibility and independence.
Secondly
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, a
gap
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year
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provides an opportunity for students to discover their passions and potential career paths before committing to a
university
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course.
This
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can lead to more informed decisions about their academic and career futures. An illustration of
this
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is seen in students who spend their
gap
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year
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in internships related to fields of interest, often finding clarity and confirmation of their chosen study paths. Without
this
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exploratory period, many might enter
university
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unprepared or uncertain about their decisions, potentially leading to higher rates of switching majors or dissatisfaction with chosen careers.
However
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, there are
also
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notable disadvantages associated with taking a
gap
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year
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. One major concern is the risk of academic skills deterioration during the prolonged break from formal education. Skills
such
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as writing, critical thinking, and mathematical abilities can decline without regular practice, which may make the transition to
university
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more challenging.
Additionally
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, there is a financial burden associated with
traveling
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travelling
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or working in unpaid internships, which may not be feasible for all students.
For instance
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, those who travel extensively during their
gap
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year
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might incur significant expenses, potentially increasing their reliance on student loans when they commence
university
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studies. If not managed carefully, these financial strains can lead to long-term economic disadvantages. In conclusion,
while
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the
gap
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year
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can offer profound benefits
such
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as increased maturity, clarity in career choices, and valuable life experiences, it
also
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carries risks like skill loss and financial burdens. It is essential for young people and their families to weigh these factors carefully to make the most informed decision about whether to take a
gap
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year
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.

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task achievement
While you've covered both the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year well, ensure that your essay remains balanced. Consider allotting an equal amount of detail and examples to each side of the argument.
coherence cohesion
In future essays, try to use more varied linking phrases to enhance the flow between paragraphs and ideas.
coherence cohesion
The essay has a clear structure with a well-defined introduction, body, and conclusion.
task achievement
The examples used, such as volunteering abroad and engaging in internships, effectively illustrate your points.

Your opinion

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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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