Is Taking a Gap Year a Good Idea?
One student’s story might convince you.
Is Taking a Gap Year a Good Idea?
When it comes to deciding whether or not to take a gap year, opinions can vary. Some see it as a much-needed break, others as a potential detour from academic or career goals. But for one student who spent their gap year at Greene’s, it was a truly transformative experience- personally, socially, and academically.
Why Take a Gap Year in the First Place?
For Marcus, from the USA, the decision wasn’t entirely clear at first. “I didn’t know what to do,” he shared. “My older brother had taken a gap year programme and enjoyed the experience. My parents suggested it so I could learn, grow, and get a broad experience of living by myself.”
The uncertainty many high school graduates feel before joining college students is real. A gap year can provide a buffer, a space to explore interests, develop independence, and gain personal growth and clarity before diving into university life without losing academic momentum entirely. “A year ago, I wasn’t prepared for college,” the student admitted. “But now I feel more independent and responsible.”
Finding the Right Programme
When searching for tailored gap year programmes, Greene’s quickly stood out. “It was recommended to me by a gap year advisory system I’m a part of. But also, if you do a bit of browsing, Greene’s comes up.” The key attraction? The unique tutorial method that Greene’s is known for.
What is the Tutorial Method of Learning at Greene’s?
Coming from traditional formal education in the US, Marcus found Greene’s one-on-one tutorial style refreshingly different. “It was something I had never experienced before. The best tutors were the ones who made the tutorials flow and followed the student’s interests, rather than sticking rigidly to a curriculum.”
This kind of personalised learning helped them dive deep into subjects like Philosophy, a subject not as accessible taught in US high schools. “It strengthens the thinking muscle,” he said. “Any skill that involves critical thinking and logic is super important and will help with other subjects too.”
More Than Just Academics
While academic growth is a big part of the gap year experience, it wasn’t the only benefit. Greene’s also helped the student develop soft skills – those often underrated but critical competencies like listening, conversational skills, and independent motivation.
“You’re kind of the new kid in a school and I wasn’t going to be here for long,” they said. “But I made lifelong friends. You have to talk to people, make conversation with tutors and peers. Regardless of cultural differences, everyone was my age and going through the same things.”
The Highlights: Fun and Fulfilment
Not everything was about academics either. Some of the student’s favourite memories? A playwriting class with Greene’s tutor, Sam, and socials like bowling nights. “When you sit in the common room, it’s like a normal school day,” they said, a testament to the sense of community Greene’s offers.
