If you're looking to give your CV or personal statement that extra edge in applications, or just want to get some experience in the field you want to go into, then consider a year in industry overseas for your gap year. If can also be a great way to earn money for future travels, or for something like university expenses.
With the job market now so ultra-competitive it's vital that you stand out from the rest, and a year in industry abroad can do exactly that. Not only will you have a year's worth of experience in your field, but you'll also have experience working abroad - amongst a different culture, possibly a different language, and different kinds of people. This is an invaluable trait in the shrinking world of today, where international dealings are far more commonplace.
It's important to mix in your year in industry with something you really want to do. After all, if you're going to be abroad for a year you have to take advantage of what the country has to offer, whether that be seeing the great sights, or doing something you can't do at home.
In addition to all this, you may find that your year's placement becomes a career opportunity. Many people, depending on how well they do and if the company has the resources, find that their work placement company offers them to return to employment after their studies, and so this could give you a bit of peace of mind for the future in that you don't have to panic so much about finding a job.
So overall, a year in industry is a brilliant opportunity to gain valuable experience, make some money, make a move on your future career and visit a different country, seeing how it is to live life abroad.
