Erin Berthon, MA Career Manager, Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, at Chapman University

The idea of diving straight into several more years of education after four years of undergrad may not be enticing, whether due to other aspirations or simply feeling drained. Taking a gap year (or years) before graduate school can provide a refreshing change of pace. It’s an opportunity for students to venture beyond the confines of the classroom, explore, learn, and mature before embarking on the next phase of their academic journey. Moreover, you can leverage your gap year experiences to enhance your future career and carefully consider what you want to study in graduate school.

A gap year can encompass many different paths, and there is no shortage of what to do during your time. Before deciding, it’s crucial to recognize what you hope to achieve during a gap year. Consider how you intend to allocate your time and what you aim to gain from the experience. Additionally, consider practical considerations, like finances, to determine whether you’ll need to work or save up for your gap year adventures.

Now, the pivotal question: what activities can you engage in during your gap year? Fortunately, the options are abundant, and promising for not only personal growth but also professional development.

Work Domestically or Internationally 

Working in a job that aligns with long-term goals before graduate school can provide practical experience and insights that enhance academic and professional pursuits. Whether gaining industry-specific skills, expanding professional networks, or accruing financial resources for graduate studies, working in a relevant job can offer numerous benefits. Hands-on experience in a related field, or even going abroad for a year, can provide clarity and direction. A job that aligns with your graduate school goals will offer valuable insights and will enrich your graduate school experience.

Volunteer

Volunteering before graduate school offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful causes while honing essential skills. Volunteering allows individuals to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities in real-world settings, fostering a sense of social responsibility and empathy, qualities highly valued in academic communities and professional settings. Volunteer experiences can provide valuable insights into real-life issues, inspire research interests, and help create a great personal statement.

Travel

Traveling can be invaluable for personal and academic growth. Experiencing different cultures, languages, and ways of life broadens perspectives and fosters adaptability, qualities essential for success in academia and beyond. Exposure to diverse environments cultivates empathy and enhances communication skills, which are invaluable assets in graduate studies and future career endeavors. Traveling provides opportunities for self-discovery and reflection, aiding in the clarification of academic and professional aspirations. See the world and document it; the world is your oyster!

Ensure a thorough understanding of your decision-making process, experiences, and lessons learned during your gap year. Reflect on expected and unexpected outcomes as they contribute to significant personal growth that resonates with your professional aspirations. Communicate this growth effectively in your personal statement for graduate school, and emphasize the relevance of your gap year experiences to your career aspirations. Whether highlighting it on your resume, elaborating in a cover letter, or discussing it in an interview, showcasing your gap year can set you apart and underscore your readiness for real-world challenges.

Looking Ahead: 2025 Trends & Opportunities for Gap Years

As the professional and academic landscape evolves, new opportunities have emerged that make taking a gap year even more beneficial. If you’re considering stepping away before graduate school, here are some 2025 trends to maximize your time.

AI, Remote Work, and Freelancing

With advancements in AI and the growing accessibility of remote work, students no longer need to put their professional development on hold during a gap year.

  • Freelancing and AI-Assisted Work: Many students are using AI tools for content creation and marketing and getting certificates in AI that will help them in their industry.
  • Remote Internships: Companies now offer virtual internships in industries such as business, tech, and media, allowing students to gain valuable experience from anywhere in the world.

Exploring New Career Paths Before Graduate School

A gap year is the perfect opportunity to explore emerging industries before committing to a master’s program.

  • Tech and Sustainability Careers: Fields like AI, cybersecurity, climate policy, and renewable energy are rapidly expanding. Students can take free or low-cost online courses to explore these industries through platforms like Google Career Certificates, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning. These certifications can help you stand out when getting a job and can easily be on your resume.

Funding and Financial Planning for Your Gap Year

A gap year can be a smart financial decision with the right planning.

  • Scholarships and Grants for Travel & Volunteering: Opportunities like the Fulbright Program and Peace Corps Prep provide funding for students seeking global experience while contributing to meaningful initiatives.
  • Working and Saving Smartly: Many students support their gap year through side hustles, financial planning apps, and passive income sources like blogging, digital product sales, or online tutoring. These strategies can also help offset future graduate school expenses.

Whether you’re using your gap year to travel, work, volunteer, or explore new career paths, the key is to be intentional. Reflect on your experiences, document your growth, and highlight the skills you’ve gained in your graduate school applications.

With more AI-driven opportunities, emerging industries, and flexible financial strategies, a gap year in 2025 is more valuable than ever. Take advantage of these evolving opportunities to craft a year that enhances your personal and professional future.