Popularity of 1-year sabbatical break is growing worldwide

A commonly used and widely recognized definition of the "gap year" is that it's the year many young people - usually recent high school or university graduates - take off before continuing their studies at college or graduate school, or starting their working lives.

During the gap year, participants take part in a wide range of activities that frequently include specific courses, internships, independent travel or volunteer work.

Many people who have taken a gap year later talk about learning more about themselves, their interests and talents during that time. They often say the experience helped them after their return to integrate and become more socially engaged.