Volunteer holidays grow in popularity
Wednesday, September 02, 2009With a shortage of places at university and fewer jobs available due to the recession, thousands of students across the UK are now planning an "unexpected gap year" as they put their studies and work plans on hold.
The Guardian reported that Will Pitt, who achieved a B and three As in economics, maths, further maths and chemistry in his A-levels, was unable to secure a place at university and is now planning to take a gap year instead.
He said: "I hadn't originally wanted to do a gap year, but now I've kind of been forced to, I'm going to use it to make sure I stand out as a candidate next year."
India is his destination of choice and he has signed onto the Medforce scheme, which allows him to gain experience working in the field of medicine while on his travels.
According to GapGuru.com, India is very popular among gap year travellers, many of whom take in sights such as the Taj Mahal or simply relax on the country's scenic beaches.
Gap year programmes available in the country are tailored to a wide range of interests, including working to promote healthcare among children, reporting on local newspapers, or coaching a sport such as rugby or football.
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