WHAT JOB SHOULD I APPLY FOR?

There are loads of benefits in getting a job overseas, but are you going to find your dream role while you’re travelling around Europe? Probably not. Career consultant Katie Roberts says it isn’t that important if the position you land abroad isn’t in your preferred field, as it’ll help you decide what you do and don’t like.

WHERE SHOULD I GO?

Places where people speak English are ideal, so think the UK/US. Wherever you go, always check if you require a working visa.

BEST TIME TO GO?

After finishing your studies or during the uni holidays.

HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY FOR?

Roberts suggests 12 months is enough time to adjust and really experience the country.

TYPES OF GAP YEARS:

Volunteer programs

People often say they want to help the less fortunate, but most never actually get around to do it. This is your chance! All kinds of jobs, like teaching, medical assistance, or wildlife protection, await you.

THINK: Eye-opening, life-changing.
PROS: You can choose where you want to go, who you help, and how long you stay. Plus, depending on your career goals, this may turn into some valuable work experience.
CONS: It’ll cost you. You’re most likely going to have to pay to go overseas and help others, so be prepared for ALL expenses.

Working holiday

Most of us can’t afford to travel the globe for a year without actually earning anything. Introducing the working holiday! Think about it – you could be a ski instructor, English teacher, a dancer on a cruise ship ...

THINK: Jobs that aren’t cool at home, yet surprisingly valuable overseas.
PROS: Well, there’s the obvious benefit of staying overseas longer!
CONS: Notice the word “work” in working holiday? Often the jobs are long hours for little pay, so you’ll have to say ta-ta to visions of you lounging around the pool.

“I’VE BEEN TRAVELLING FOR, ER, A YEAR ... ”

So, you’re back from your break and feeling deflated because, rather than sitting in a Paris cafe, you’re slumped at a desk browsing jobs on SEEK. Have you lost your dream role to somebody who’s been working all year while you’ve been out partying? Roberts says that employers will have different views, but gap years are generally seen as a positive.

“It demonstrates that you’re willing to go outside your comfort zone and get life experience,” she says.

WHAT DO I TELL AN EMPLOYER?

On your return, Roberts recommends including information about your gap year in your CV and mentioning it in your job interview. “List the skills you learnt and the knowledge you gained,” she advises. “If you worked during the year, add your job responsibilities and achievements.”

YAY OR NAY?

CLEO readers share their experiences:

Haley, 25, marketing, went to London after uni then travelled around Europe.“Taking a year off to travel and work helped me get a job on my return. Employers were amazed that I took the plunge to do that.”

Lyssa, 20, hospitality, spent 12 weeks in Europe after high school. “Seeing the world straight after school made me grow up and widen my view of just about everything, but I wouldn’t say it helped me get a job.”

Morgan, 21, advertising, travelled to England, Paris, and Ireland for a few months. “Taking time off after school was a fantastic experience for me – I’d definitely do it again. It really helped me find a role, as I felt more confident and ‘worldly’.”

Jess, 23, CLEO intern, didn't take a gap year, opting instead to go to uni straight after school, and then into the work force. “Although I feel like I’ve missed out on some great adventures with my friends, I don’t regret not taking time off. After school, I really just wanted to get directly into work and I did just that.