Being on a gap year is indeed not always a pleasant thing. However, some of us choose a gap year because the situation and conditions do not yet allow us to pursue our dreams of entering college. But readers, taking a gap year doesn't always bring negative impacts or disadvantages! Mimin was also a gap year kid, so Mimin will spill everything Mimin gained and did during the gap year.
Here are several opportunities and benefits you can gain from a gap year, as long as you can make the absolute best of it. Here they are!
1. Participating in Job Training
Why job training, Min? I want something related to college. Hold on, participating in job training is also highly beneficial for your future. Even though you are a gap year kid, it doesn't mean you must constantly obsess over the college world, right? By joining job training, you will eventually gain skills that are useful both in the professional world and in college life.
Some job training programs you can take that are beneficial for both areas include graphic design and editing, readers. Proficiency in editing is highly demanded in the professional world; companies or institutions of all kinds always require design and editing personnel.
With your design and editing skills, you can easily get accepted and will always be needed in on-campus organizations, readers. So, no need to worry about not getting in. As for the training, nowadays it is very easy to find free training programs; you just have to be smart at searching for training information closest to your home...
2. Working
If I work, how do I study, Min? Now, that is a highly interesting question. Let Mimin share my own experience during my gap year. Back then, Mimin worked at a retail company where the marketing system was online marketing. At that time, Mimin held the position of Customer Service (CS) in that company. Apart from earning pocket money and saving up for college, by working, you will gain invaluable experience, readers.
a. Copywriting Skills
Yes, indeed—indirectly learning and creating copywriting. In a CS position, we are demanded to acquire as many customers as possible. With that demand, we must attract customers so they want to buy the products we offer. To stimulate and persuade customers, writing copy is the solution.
b. Boosting Self-Confidence
Working can boost your self-confidence. Because we are required to interact with many people—not just coworkers, but also a variety of customers. By meeting many people, we will also realize that we are unique in our own way. So yes, just be yourself... say goodbye to insecurity.
c. Practicing Public Speaking
In communicating with customers, we are indirectly honing our public speaking skills, readers. Public speaking is highly beneficial in various fields, especially during college.
d. Learning Teamwork and Responsibility
Since we have specific job descriptions and teams in our work, this is where our ability to cooperate and take responsibility is honed. So later on, when we are in college or entering the professional workforce, we won't be confused about how to work in a team, readers...
Oh, by the way, you must be wondering: if I'm doing training and working, when do I study to prepare for college entrance exams (SBMPTN)? Back then, Mimin only studied by reading and practicing questions bit by bit, readers. Studying occurred after returning home from work or on holidays. Interestingly, when we are hanging out at some natural tourist spots, our brains are fresher and it's much easier to absorb the materials.
In addition, the two points mentioned above are highly beneficial for filling up your CV, readers, haha!
So, those were the experiences Mimin gained from working. What do you think? Interested in trying it out?
Keep up the spirit, gap year community! Wishing you great success in reaching your dreams!