In view of the current economic crisis, standing out from the flood of job applicants is a high priority. International experience is one proven method for sending resumes to the top of the pile. It offers unusual expertise such as second language skills, cross-cultural field experience and a real-world focus on vital areas such as teaching, health care, construction, or environmental issues. Many “gappers” have found that they return from a gap year more mature, independent, and with greater drive, focus, and appreciation of the world and its cultural diversity.
In light of this, many students, recent graduates, and working professionals are choosing to reprioritize their personal goals and are applying for gap year and gap semester programs in increasing numbers.
Caitlin Hoffman, a current United Planet gap year program participant, intended to devote her year after graduation from college to help developing communities by personally dedicating her time and energy to making someone else’s life better. “This is the time in my life when I can participate in something meaningful. I will never have this chance again,“ said Caitlin. She is taking an active part in a Gap Year Quest with United Planet in Honduras. Currently she is working in a public hospital in Tegucigalpa that helps children who are fighting cancer. According to Caitlin, “It has been one of the hardest and absolute best experiences of my life.”
On gap year programs, United Planet volunteers become enmeshed in the fabric of life in their host communities—
The programs are flexible in the kinds of volunteer work, locations and the lengths of stay. Volunteer abroad opportunities are offered in over 30 countries and focus on issues such as teaching, health care, orphanage work, micro-empowerment, women’s empowerment, environmental conservation and community development.
Examples of United Planet Gap Year Programs
There’s nothing like a good hard day’s work outside. In New Zealand, volunteer can work with animals (cows, horses and sheep) at residential farm projects. Volunteers live with the family and take part in daily farm activities, such as feeding and rounding up the animals, milking the cows, or driving a tractor. Prepare to get your hands dirty!
Humanitarian projects are also available in a variety of countries. In Brazil, volunteers can work at a local human rights advocacy organization which assists marginalized women and disabled populations, live with a host family and improve Portuguese conversation skills.
For more information on United Planet Gap Year programs, please visit: http://www.unitedplanet.org/
