Uncover the potential of gap years with expert Michelle Dittmer! In this podcast episode, she guides you through a month-by-month exploration plan, tackling the overwhelming choices or lack of direction in building your gap year.
Embrace the unknown, take off the pressure, and focus on the next step, not the final destination. Whether you have too many interests or none, Michelle's practical tips help you discover your passion and pave the way for a purposeful gap year.
Topics Discussed
Strategic Exploration: Michelle advocates for a month-by-month approach in a gap year, offering online courses, informational interviews, and hands-on experiences to strategically explore potential careers.
Pressure Off, Passion On: Dittmer emphasizes that it's okay not to have life figured out at a young age, urging a focus on the next step rather than the final destination, relieving the pressure on young individuals.
From Interests to Insights: For those overwhelmed with interests, Michelle suggests digging beyond reputation and salary, engaging in activities that provide real insights into potential careers during a gap year.
Passion Unearthed: For those struggling to identify their passion, Michelle encourages making lists of liked and disliked experiences, helping uncover patterns that could guide individuals towards fulfilling careers.
Comfort Zone Challenge: Dittmer encourages getting out of the comfort zone during a gap year—whether through travel, joining clubs, or taking new courses—to discover unknown interests and gather the missing puzzle pieces for future decisions.
Resources Mentioned In This Episode
Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
A Parent's Guide to Gap Years: Exploring Outward Bound with Stacy
Parenting Neurodivergent Youth: Navigating Adulthood Transitions with Confidence
Neurodiversity & Gap Years: Support and Self-Discovery
Unlocking Wellness: Navigating Mental Health in Your Gap Year
What is a Gap Year?
What to do with a University Drop Out
How to have MORE FUN - According to our Book Club!
How to Pick a Uni Program (Or Not)
From Shy to Bold: Unveiling the Transformative Power of a Gap Year
From Imposter Syndrome to Empowerment: 100 Episodes of Reflection and Growth
How to evaluate the safety of gap year programs
Why You Shouldn’t Rush Yourself - With Jessica
Why September’s Actions will Make or Break your Gap Year
How to Support your Kid’s Wacky Idea
2SLGBTQ+ Considerations for a Gap Year (a starting place)
Why Travel and Experiential Programs are Critical in 2023 with Carpe Diem’s ED, Adam
The 3 Most Challenging Times of Year for Gappers
Unserious Careers - How taking time to figure it out pays off in health, happiness and success
Talking to your Teen about Taking a Gap Year
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