Whether youths spend a year of travelling before they attend to work or

university is an issue which generates a great deal of debate. Advocates of a “gap

year” take the view that it helps students gain experiences and improves their
relationships. However, those whose oppose this issue are in opinions that it
waste time, money and it is dangerous. This essay will explore some pros and
cons of a “gap year” before any conclusions drawn.
To begin with, it is undoubtedly that there are several drawbacks of a “gap
year”. Firstly, the greatest disadvantages of it is that is wastes a huge amount of
time. When students spent a whole year for travelling, they are losing their youth
because one year is really a long time. Moreover, during one gloomy year, young
people can easily feel depress and exhausted. Secondly, students have to pay a
plenty money for their journey. It will better if they use this money for another
meaningful activities including charity, education or health. Last but not least,
there are many risks when young generation who’ve just graduated high school
with a little experiences, travel to unfamiliar destinations. Because of the
differences in climate, life style, social situation or religion between the students’
hometown and the new destinations, they can encounter dangerous things,
especially crimes.
In contrast, a “gap year” also has some benefits. Evidently, students can
gain practical experiences. For instance, during these vacations, they can learn a
number kinds of skills such as survival skill, problem-solve skill or
communicated skill which may essential for their future. Furthermore, youths can
improve their relationships through trips. Making new friends, contact with local
people…all of these activities offer them new opportunities which may useful
when they come back and start their main duty ( work, university).
In conclusion, it is obvious that the disadvantages associated with a “gap
year” overweigh the advantages it offers. The government should not encourage
it, especially in popular media.