Another 365 Idea - Blogging

As part of our work with our gappers, we set out to create a journey document.  In this document, we capture, from start to finish, the growth, experience and milestones each of our gappers accomplish through their 365 experience with us.

Last week, we shared some ideas about how to capture your year.   Another idea, is blogging.   One of our gappers who is having an amazing year thus far has provided us with one of her blogs to showcase how she captures her experience through reflection.  She explores her experience with our coaching and using EQ/Emotional Intelligence as a means of growing into herself, and the person she wants to be.   Being part of this journey is incredible.   We can tell that this one is going to move some mountains! (Dr. Seuss reference)

  Let's visit a short blog from her site:

Reflection time

Thanks to mygapyear I've had so much time to reflect on myself and figure out all sorts of things I've always wanted to know about. I've figured out how I work best, how I have a hard time dealing with stress and how I'm really self critical. All things I would have never had time to think about or realized if I had kept forging full steam ahead into the future. And just these small realizations are making all the difference to how I operate. I always thought that I would need to fully understand the things I want to work on about myself and then take action to begin to change them. Turns out just realizing more about myself is the biggest action of all. Guess they weren't lying when they said "knowledge is power". (I had to throw at least one cheesy reference to that phrase in there). I'm so excited to put all this new self understanding to good use!

So, how are you capturing this year? Share on our facebook group, or @mygapyear!   We want to hear how you are making your mark on 2013.   Learning to grow into yourself and gathering an understanding is certainly a huge part of a gap year - but it can be part of your year with or without a gap year.

How do you measure a year?  Cups of Coffee?

Gift Giving For a World Traveler or Gapper

It is the season when many individuals are thinking about or planning their gift giving for the festive season. mygapyear has put a series of ideas together to help inspire you as you cross friends, family or others off your list.  Our favourite seasonal delight right now is the Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar.   Below are some ideas from The Ottawa Citizen to help inspire your gift giving or travel planning this festive season.

Icebreaker's Nature Scoop Top

What it is: A lightweight, washable top made of wool from the merino sheep (that's one below).

Why it makes the list: From underwear to outer layers, Icebreaker products, from New Zealand, are fast becoming athletes' and travellers' garments of choice because they feel so great, breathe and are washable. And what other product comes with a "baacode" that allows you to (virtually) meet the very sheep that grew your wool?

Tuk Tuk Carry-All Bag

What it is: An ingenious bag from lug.

Why it makes the list: What doesn't this bag do? It's the right size for carrying on a plane and has a strap on the back so you can slide it onto the handle of your wheeled luggage. It has 15 pockets, including two insulated ones for drinks, cellphone-sized ones and a ventilated compartment for shoes. It also has a drawstring bag and a cushiony pad inside -- for sitting on in Central Park, or changing a baby at a play group. And that's the surprise: hidden latch straps let you attach it to a baby stroller, for use as a diaper bag.

Heys xScale

What it is: The world's smallest portable luggage scale, its digital display measures up to 110 pounds (50 kg).

Why it makes the list: Because weight loss is always in. Especially when airlines are getting stricter with baggage allowances, you're travelling to that S&M conference, and the clerk is asking you to remove weighty items from your bag as impatient co-travellers in the queue rubberneck. It's also designed and developed in Canada.

The Flip Ultra Video Camera

What it is: A compact, cellphone-shaped video camera that records 60 minutes of digital footage. A built-in USB arm connects the gadget directly to your computer, which means one less wire in your frightening "techsessories" drawer.

Why it makes the list: It's super portable, cheap enough to abuse and the single red button (record, duh) eliminates a lot of confusion. Watch out, YouTube, granny's got a Flip!

Buff

What it is: The Barcelona company that makes Buff calls it "the original multifunctional headwear." It's a bit like a bandana, but it's a seamless loop of a microfibre fabric.

Why it makes the list: Besides being très cool, it's amazingly versatile -- just go to www.buff.us to see the "12 ways to wear a buff" video, which takes you from balaclava to "pirate" and back to a cap. It wicks, keeps you warm or cool as needed, and comes in a plethora of prints, including this Bushtukah exclusive.

Delsey Helium Mobility

What it is: A lightweight, hard-sided suitcase that meets carry-on size restrictions.

Why it makes the list: With more airline chaos, carry-on is the way to go. And this one is exceptionally light, loaded with useful pockets and straps and has sturdy latches rather than a zipper. The clincher: with four wheels, you can pull it sideways down narrow aisles.

Supernatural Travel Yoga Mat

What it is: A yoga mat that's small enough to stuff in your suitcase.

Why it makes the list: Made of natural rubber, this mat allows the yogi or yogini in your life to om away from home. It's thinner than a regular yoga mat, but all you need on a hotel-room carpet.

Retreat Yoga Duffel

What it is: A duffel bag that's built big enough to hold a regular, rolled-up yoga mat, as well as all the clothes you need for a weekend away.

Why it makes the list: Made of recycled polyester and jute, with retro goddess images inside, it's the thing to have for yoga getaways. Pockets inside include one for a yoga block and a drawstring pouch for shoes. A detachable shoulder strap doubles as a mat-carrying strap. (Mat and water bottle not included, but would make appreciated additions.)

The BaByliss Pro TT

What it is: A tiny, perfect blow dryer. With a folding handle, it's less than seven inches long, but delivers full strength, professional power (it's probably better than the one you usually use at home). It also has two voltage settings, so it works here and abroad.

Why it makes the list: Because you want to have good hair when you're on holidays -- just think of all those photos.

Nap Sac, From Lug Travel Essentials

What it is: A travel blanket and pillow set.

Why it makes the list: Just give it a squeeze. Fleecy soft, this groovy set is comforting and cosy warm. An inflatable pillow tucks into the case and the blanket has a pocket for your reading glasses or iPod. Great for planes, trains, car trips or concerts.

The TS2 Detailer

What it is: A teeny-tiny, but powerful, hair straightener. It's small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, but makes fast work of unruly bangs and frizzy ends.

Why it makes the list: Anyone who sees this thing in action (OK, any young woman), is amazed. Big hair goes sleek in seconds. We've even heard that some professional stylists are using this travel device at home.

Better Energy Systems Solio Classic Solar Charger

What it is: Tap into that big ball o' burning gas and power up cameras, cellphones, MP3 players and GPS devices on the road. One hour of sun yields 20 minutes of talk time or 50 minutes of music on your iPod.Why it makes the list: Flashpacking (tech-laden backpacking) is cool, and that "Morocco On Foot" blog is lookin' mighty fine. But, sadly, hauling a 10-pound adapter supply through the Sahara is no mirage.

TravelRest Pillow

What it is: An inflatable travel pillow that's shaped like an extended comma. Sling the tether cord over the seat back on an airplane or car and cuddle the cushion.

Why it makes the list: The typical horseshoe travel pillow still leaves you feeling like your head is forming a right angle with your torso. This innovative device keeps your noggin upright.

Bonus: When deflated, it takes up minimal space in your luggage.

All rights belong to: http://www.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/great+gifts+traveller+your+list/1053202/story.html

Keeping a Pulse on our Gappers & the News.

Have you wondered what some of our gappers are up to around the world?  Currently, we have several gappers traveling, preparing to embark, and many that are just beginning their journey.  We look forward to some guest blogs by one of our gappers in the coming weeks.  For now, let's explore the South American adventures of one of our gappers who is currently travelling our wonderful world.

Of Buses and Beaches

• Yisouthamerica's Profile
 
• About this blog
 
• Entry from Baños

Trip StartSep 17, 2012

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Trip EndDec 06, 2012

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  Baños, Pastaza, Ecuador
Sunday, November 11, 2012

Greetings from South America!

Following our Machu Picchu excursion, we packed our bags and began our week long voyage to the Amazon rain forest in Ecuador. Lucky for us though, there were quite a few stops along the way!

The first of said stops was in Lima, the capital of Peru and one of the largest cities in all of South America. The city itself was unlike any we have visited thus far in terms of both size and nature. It is a city of extremes and in the the short time we spent there we were exposed to modern urbanization and rich cultural tradition, extreme wealth and rampant poverty, as well as both the very familiar and the inherently strange.

As soon as we dropped off our bags, many of us decided to visit the catacombs of the San Franciscan Friary in the heart of the historical district

Mancora Beach

. For hundreds of years this crypt has housed the remains of many saints and monks, and today is widely regarded as one of the jewels of the city. Following our tour, a short ten minute walk took us to the main plaza, an area that looked like it could have belonged in Western Europe. The plaza consisted of many high end boutiques and department stores, and also played host to the first McDonald´s any of us have seen in the last two months (interesting to note, that here McDonald´s is more along the lines of a legitimate restaurant as opposed to its more traditional role of fast food back home). As night fell, we decided to stay in the hostal (not wanting to take any unnecessary risks in a city as large as Lima), playing instruments, telling ghost stories, and mentally preparing  ourselves for the days ahead.

The next day we boarded a bus destined for Mancora, a town situated in the beautiful northern beaches of Peru. The ride was a twenty hour haul up the coast, made nice by the luxury bus we decided to splurge on. Although the ride sounded awfully intimidating beforehand, many of us used the time to begin our vacation a little bit early, catching up on some sleep, reading, and watching movies (the bus attendants were nice enough to play several in English, as our group took up more than three quarters of the bus).By the time we arrived in Mancora we were already in full relaxation mode

Our Beachside Hostel

. We changed into our bathing suits and picked our favorite hammocks as the next two days passed in a blur.

Our first night we built a bonfire on the sand and were serenaded under the stars by Noah and Shawn. I think the old saying is true that ¨music is the universal language,¨ because not long after the instruments were brought out, were we joined by the other members of the hostal. Soon we had Americans, Canadians, Germans, and Argentinians all singing around the fire. It was truly a sight to see (and hear)! This was also the night of the presidential election and everybody, no matter the nationality, was interested in the outcome. The few with wi-fi enabled devices kept us all updated on the latest news, and when the final decision was announced, those of us who were still awake celebrated Obama´s victory with a couple of late night hamburgers.

Mancora passed all too fast, and before long we found ourselves on another bus, this time headed for Cuenca, our first stop in Ecuador and the beginning of the last leg of our three month journey through South America. We crossed the border with no problems and arrived in Cuenca late at night. Not to worry though, because the next day we had ample time for independent exploration of the old colonial town

Hammocks where much time was spent in Mancora.

. We stayed in the middle of the historical district. The streets were cobblestone, the buildings old, and each corner, it seemed, had a church and a bakery.

First impressions of Ecuador had us realizing that there is something different about this country than the others we have visited thus far, although none of us could seem to place our finger on it. Perhaps it is a more modern culture with less of an Aymaran and Quechuan influence, or perhaps it is a tad bit newer or the area as whole cleaner. It is too early to tell for sure, but we are all excited to see and experience more of this new chapter of the trip.

Again, after having only spent two nights in Cuenca we boarded another bus to Baños, a city known for its natural baths and outdoor adventure. With just a two night stay to enjoy one of Ecuador´s main attractions, we decided to make the most of it. Donning our wetsuits and life jackets, we braved the whitewater rapids of the Rio Verde.  We left with more than a few stories to tell. It is safe to say that this rafting adventure has definitely been one of the highlights of the trip thus far!

Feeling rested and relaxed after our mini vacation of sorts, we are now all eager to begin the next portion of our adventure -- the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest

The beach at Mancora.

. It is sure to be a difficult two weeks both mentally and physically, although for many of us it is the challenge we have most looked forward to. We will not have access to internet and so, unfortunately, there will not be another blog post for quite some time. However, as the holiday season nears, we would like to say that we love and miss all of you back home and wish you the very best. Happy Thanksgiving! 

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/yisouthamerica/3/1352646342/tpod.html#ixzz2C7upOg2f

Turning Your Gap Year Into a “Stand Out” Resume

In anticipation of our LifeApp, we wanted to give you a little taste about how a gap year can enhance your resume!  This week in our blog we cover how you can create a stand out resume & why a gap year can help.

Would you like to attend our workshop or have someone in mind that might benefit from this workshop (specifically young adults) please email us at home at mygapyear.dot ca.


In today’s world landing a job has become more difficult and more competitive than ever.  This is especially true for the new graduate. While formal education is still very much the standard requirement for most jobs, chances are it won’t be your university degree that gets you in the door.  Even graduating with straight A’s, is just not enough anymore.  So how do you land that dream job and set yourself apart from the other candidates?  Career transition experts say that skills such as self awareness, emotional intelligence, possessing the right attitude, and often practical experience is what will give a potential candidate the leading edge.

A structured gap year will give you real life experience outside of the classroom that can be leveraged to differentiate you when it comes to a job search, and will help you develop those crucial skills that are needed to create the “wow” factor on your resume.  A gap year can help build leadership skills, broaden your perspective of other cultures, views and global awareness, develop organizational, problem solving, and time management skills, as well as increase your motivation and self reliance - all attributes and skills that are among the top listed qualities that employers want.

The trick then becomes conveying and articulating your gap year adventures to match what employers are looking for. Below are a few tips to consider when creating your resume.

• Label your gap year under the heading “Other Experience” and remember to include dates.  This is more effective than simply “hiding” it under work experience where it may appear a little flaky
  
• Choose to highlight tangible skills that you gained which are transferable and easily translate into diverse jobs
  
• Don’t include everything!! You most likely gained a bunch of new skills during your gap year that you consider important, but remember, a resume is only meant to pique the curiosity of the reader so include only the points that are most relevant to the specific job you are targeting 
  
• Make sure you include specific examples to demonstrate the skill you want to highlight. This will go a long way in adding credibility especially if you choose examples that are actionable
  
• Don’t forget about the cover letter.  The cover letter is a great place to introduce and highlight how your gap year experience makes you a unique candidate with added value for the organization.  

So if a gap year is something you are considering but are not sure if it’s right for you ask yourself how it might help set you on the right path for future career success?

We can partner with you through one on one coaching, planned travel and volunteer experience that will ensure your gap year will be successful in helping you clarify your career/ educational goals and interests, discover your passions and interests, and give you the practical experience you need to stand out from the crowd and look attractive to a future employer.

Gapping Alone?

A mygapyear alumni shares her story & review of Rustic Pathways

One of our gappers shared some insights with us about her experience with Rustic Pathways. More relevant to this post is her decision to join a tour group alone.  How you want to spend your gap year, either locally or globally, is a tough and personal decision.  Many individuals that we work with are travelling alone for the first time with out family or other friends; therefore, it is a can be smart plan to go with a trusted tour organization.  There are thousands out there - this is why it is so important to read reviews, speak to others who have gone on trips with them and work with  people you can learn to trust - like mygapyear! There are lots of perks going with a group; for example, you will meet people from all over the world.  It is a great way to plan future trips and experiences.  There is often a balance of group and personal time.  Our gapper shares more reasons below for taking a gap experience with a group. Please enjoy the wonderful write up from our gapper and her trip to Peru! 

I have been back from Peru for nearly a month now but with the trip and the country still fresh in my mind I wanted to take the time to put down in words how pleased I was with the month Rustic Pathways organized for me. Going into the trip, I was definitely a little apprehensive---I was the first mygapyear client to travel with Rustic, and wasn't quite sure what to expect. And to be fair, the first few days were tough: it wasn't clearly stated on the Rustic Pathways website, but I soon found out that because I was doing the April trip (the third month in which they offer gap trips) I was actually joining a group that had already been together for the past two months. As opposed to being in the same boat as everyone else, I was one of only a few "newbies" to the group, and that was definitely a challenge---not only was I in a new country, but I also had to deal with the fact that everyone already knew each other!

In a way, though, I'm glad I went into the trip not knowing that everyone would already be friends, because if I had known that beforehand I might not have gone and I would have missed out on one of the most exciting months of my life! The trip was an adventure/volunteer excursion throughout the Andes inPeru, and I found it to be the perfect mix of exploring, volunteering, free-time, and relaxing. We started the trip around Cusco and Ollantaytambo, a place known as the "living city of the Incas", and it was the perfect introduction to the country's background and culture. We got the chance to live with and learn from local families, but also didn't miss out on the main tourist attrations the country has to offer---Machu Picchu, the Andes, Lake Titicaca, and more. I wouldn't have changed a thing about the itinerary.

I also really liked the fact that our group was smaller than most gap trips are---there were only eight of us (plus the most fabulous guide!) in total, and we really got to know each other really well. At times it was hard to deal with everyone---sometimes people didn't feel like working, or other times half the group wasn't feeling well---but that is only to be expected, and our guide couldn't have dealt with things any better. I also found it hard at times being the only Canadian in the group---Rustic is an American organization and everyone was from the States---but it proved to be a good conversation starter on more than one occasion! And for the most part the group did get along really well, and I have made friends that I hope to keep in touch with in the future.

The trip was definitely worth the cost and if I had the chance, I wouldn't hesitate to travel with Rustic again. I feel as if I really got to know Peru as a country and had the chance to help out a lot, and I wouldn't change a thing about it.

Where to Start:

 Successful Gap Years &the mygapyear Advantage

Hello future gappers and interested readers.  Hope you found our series on myths about gap years helpful.  I believe there is something about our transition from spring into summer that causes us to think differently about our lives.  We spring clean our houses, wardrobes and for some our lives! With all the new growth around us - leaves on trees and the sprouting bounty of our vegetable gardens.  For many this is a time of transition as well - out of high school, away from college or university or the end of university. This is a great time for you - who are in one of those life phases or the young adult in your life to explore an opportunity to take a gap year, short or long, to 'spring clean' their life in 2012.

How do I plan a gap year?

1. Create a personal vision/goal ex. figure out my career direction; build self-confidence and independence; learn French
2. Write down manageable steps to support your vision/goal ex. use a calendar;
3. Create a budget for your gap year; think about things you love to do
4. Research related programs and experiences that relate to your vision/goals ex. volunteer to work with children overseas; learn French in France
5. Share your ideas and surround yourself with people who will encourage and support you to keep this vision alive
6. Reflect on your self-learning and what direction you want to take as a result of your experience ex. a different academic program; a different perspective 

Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure were to start?  That is where mygapyear can help.  We have a team of experts who are eager to help you discover your passions, goals and dreams.

The mygapyear Advantage 

Our unique approach develops confident and empowered young adults ready for the opportunities that lie ahead. We partner with you to create a meaningful gap year through:

• Coaching, Emotional Intelligence Building and Leadership Development

• A researched and personalized gap year plan

• Ongoing support and encouragement throughout the experience

Interested in seeing how we can help make sense of a gap year for you or the young adult in your life?  Or do you know a school, community group or individual we should get in touch with?  Visit our website or encourage the individual in your life who could benefit from hearing about our work to message us.  We would be happy to chat with you about your goals, vision and questions about your gap year.  

WHAT ABOUT TAKING A GAP YEAR?

Welcome back, readers.  This is the final posting in our three week series.  We have explored myths about gap years, what happens to an individual's academic journey and finally, we want to share stories from some of our current gappers.  Below is an entry from a gapper who is travelling in South America.  Our clients have traveled all over the world and Canada.  Blogging is a great way to say in touch with family and friends while abroad.  mygapyear values the unique opportunity blogging can add to an individual's gap year experience.  It is a great tool to capture learning, stories and a fun way to stay in touch with family and friends. 

Part Three:  What could you do on a gap year? 

Blog excerpt from a current blogging gapper!

Hey all—

I am proud to say that we have all returned safe and sound to civilization after two amazing weeks in the Amazon. All a little dirty and smelly, we can't help but be proud of all the hard work we’ve accomplished. 

Our first week was spent in the small village of Campo Cocha and our second week was spent just up the river volunteering at a rain forest reserve run by the Arajuno Jungle Lodge. 

In Campo Cocha, we lived with local families in quite rustic conditions. These local families were Quichua, the indigenous people to this region. 

Our mornings were spent working and spending time with our families while our afternoons were spent running a "kids camp" for all the children of the village

Standing in the Buttresses of the ¨Tree of Life¨

. The work that filled our mornings included: collecting cacao and opening the fruits with a machete to collect the coco beans inside, chopping wood, fishing, collecting yucca and plantains, panning in the river for gold, and much more. 

After a hearty lunch of some variation of yucca and plantains, we set off to go to the center of the village to run the kids camp.  Some of us had to walk as far as a kilometre and a half (about one mile) each way. 

We ran the kids camp by doing a different theme of activities (arts, sports or science) each day. Whether it was painting wacky pictures with water colours, kicking a ball around a soccer field with 30 very enthusiastic and energetic little ones, or having slime fights, the kids always had us laughing and having a great time. 

After being exhausted from hard work in the mornings and chasing after kids all afternoon, we would return back to our host families to help prepare dinner and spend time together. We happily collapsed into our beds every night for a much deserved sleep. 

            A week flew by, and after a tearful goodbye with our families, we boarded a small motorized canoe and travelled up the river, deeper into the rain forest, to the Arajuno Jungle lodge for a week of ecological conservation work. 

Upon arrival, we discovered that our lodging was not nearly as rustic as our experience in Campo Cocha village had been

 Another Woman of the Village

Comments!

. Tom, the former Peace Corps trainer who owns and runs the lodge, had outfitted the beautiful hardwood and thatched roof buildings with nice furnishings, including a hammock for almost everyone in our group, a TV with a selection of DVDs, a stereo, and an ipod player --  all completely run by solar power. Even his water system was run by rain water he collected in reservoirs. It was truly an ecologically sustainable palace. 

However, pleasant lodging aside, our work was just as physically demanding as it had been in Campo Cocha. Tom, who works tirelessly to restore the Yellow Spotted Turtle populations of the river, had us chopping up bamboo with machetes, planting bamboo on the riverside and hauling bags of sand from a beach up to his enclosure of Yellow Spotted Turtles to provide them with sand to lay their eggs in. With four and a half hours of work every morning, we were all thankful to have our lazy afternoons of curling up in a hammock with a good book. 

            But now our time at the Arajuno Jungle Lodge has ended, and our time in the Amazon rain forest in general, and we are off to the bustling markets of Otavalo. It’s hard to believe that our time in South America is almost over and we’ll be seeing you all soon.

But until then—

Hope all is well back home.




Thank you for joining us on our three week exploration of taking a gap year.  Next week, we will begin a new series.  Please join us as we explore the foundations of  successful gap years.  

WHAT ABOUT TAKING A GAP YEAR?

Last week we explored three common myths about taking a gap year.  A gap year is a unique opportunity to take time away from your regular routine based on your budget, timeline and goals.  But what about school -good question!  This week we are exploring a theme of myths related to post-secondary planning and a gap year.We hope it answers some of your questions,future gappers and families!

Part Two: What about a post-secondary education? 

Going back, getting started and why a gap year can help!

En route to Colca Canyon, Peru

4. They/You will lose a year. When personal discovery and learning takes place, - nothing is lost! Gappers have experienced many different scenarios when working with universities/colleges. Start by looking into your university/college to see if they offer a deferral (or sabbatical) option so that you can delay the start of your first (or next) year. If you have to re-apply, consider building your portfolio and experiences over the course of a gap year to demonstrate your commitment to education in your field.  Some individuals are not ready to embark on their next educational steps after high school.  Here is a video we have put together where some of our clients share their stories about taking a structured gap year.

5. They/You will never return/go to school. By taking a gap year and committing to learning more about the world around you and how you fit into the larger picture  you have the potential to return more motivated, passionate and dedicated to a field that truly inspires you. This renewed sense of energy and self awareness helps young adults commit to an educational path or direction that engages them now and  in their future.

6. Universities/colleges frown on gap years. Gap years have been encouraged in Australia and the UK for decades - they are just starting to be recognized in North America.    Check out what Harvard, Parenting Blogs and Princeton have to say about gap years in North America. Want to help us put gap years on the radar of universities and colleges?  Please sign our petition on the top right corner of our blog!

Join us again next week as we explore part three in our series: stories of our gappers! We will start to share with you the plethora of stories, experiences and adventures of the individuals we work.

Have we de-mystified gap years for you? Have you started dreaming or planning some time away from your regular routine? Let us know below!