Gap Year in Central America - Carpe Diem International Education

My Carpe Diem Testimonial
by Dannielle, 21

I took a semester off from college in February 2008 and went to Central America for three months. I traveled in a group of 8 students and two leaders. We studied Spanish at two Spanish schools, volunteered within the communities that we lived in, and spent time discovering more about ourselves. I was coming into my second year at College, and I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I felt lost and confused about my future and about who I was. I wanted to go to another country and not only learn about a new culture, but learn more about myself, and how fortunate I was living in Canada.

My parents found the website, but I applied by myself. They did help me with all of the paperwork to ensure that I was covered and safe to travel. I couldn’t support myself completely financially for this trip, so they offered to pay for half. The rest I saved from working up until January 2008 with the YMCA.

Personally, I have learned so much about myself as a result of participating in the semester; I am more confident and have a clearer understanding about my academics. I haven’t made an official career choice, but this trip really helped me narrow the options down.

This is THE BEST thing you can do before college, during college, or even after college. It doesn’t matter when you do it, but you definitely should just go. The hardest decision I ever had to make was actually getting off my butt and doing something outside of my comfort zone. It’s challenging, and saving for the trip was very hard because I didn’t see the results immediately, but in the end, it was worth it. This kind of experience is a once in a lifetime chance that you should take advantage of while you can. I can’t wait to go again! *Note*: It is very important that you as the student going decide which trip and why you are going. My parents were very supportive of me, but they had nothing to do with my country of choice. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you are proving to yourself just how brave you are! Anyone can do this, I promise.

Carpe Diem International Education offers 3-month semesters abroad and overseas designed for college students, GAP year students, and high school seniors.