1. Do your research
There a rise in the number of organisations preparing to organise a gap year - so you need to choose carefully. Things to look for are how long they've been around, how much they charge, where your money goes and what level of support they provide during your time away.
2. Budget carefully
Taking a gap year can be expensives. If you are doing something worthwhile during your year out, then you are much more likely to get sponsorships. Think about all the costs involved - flights, visas, insurance, any jabs you need. Look out for the small number of organisations which offer financial support in the form of bursaries and funded places.
3. Safety
If you are travelling with a reputable organisation then common sense should suffice to keep you out of trouble. Look for what level of support is offered by your organisation - for example Lattitude provides a 24h emergency phone line.
4. Think ahead
Employers and universities are really looking for something "different" which stands out on application forms. By making a difference on a worthwhile project, you can pick up all sorts of useful skills including teaching, leadership, team-playing and interpersonal skills. Lattitude also run a Business Partnership Scheme, putting returned volunteers in direct contact with some of the UK's major graduate recruiters.
5. Go for it!
Going above and beyond what might be expected of you can make the whole experience much more rewarding and leave you with some incredible memories of your time away.
