Some young people look forward to a year of travelling, a gap year, before they begin work or university and see it as a chance to broaden their horizons. For others, this is an expensive waste of time. Which viewpoint do you agree with?

Some people argue that taking a gap year to travel before starting work or university is a valuable opportunity to expand one's perspectives, while others believe it is an unnecessary and costly endeavor. In my opinion, I agree with the former viewpoint, as I believe that a gap year can provide numerous benefits for personal and professional development.

Firstly, traveling during a gap year can offer young people the chance to gain valuable life experiences and learn about different cultures. By immersing themselves in new environments, individuals can develop a greater understanding and appreciation for diversity, which can be beneficial in a globalized world. Additionally, exposure to different customs and traditions can help individuals cultivate empathy and open-mindedness, qualities that are essential for personal growth and success in various fields.

Moreover, a gap year can also provide opportunities for skill development and self-discovery. For instance, individuals may have the chance to learn new languages, acquire practical skills, or engage in volunteer work, all of which can contribute to their personal and professional growth. Furthermore, taking time to explore different interests and passions can help young people gain clarity about their future career paths, leading to more informed decisions when it comes to choosing a university major or career.

From my own experience, I have seen friends and acquaintances return from their gap year with newfound confidence, cultural awareness, and a clearer sense of purpose. Many have also expressed that their gap year experiences have enriched their lives and provided them with valuable insights that have positively influenced their academic and professional pursuits.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that a gap year spent traveling can be an enriching and worthwhile experience for young individuals. It can provide opportunities for personal development, skill acquisition, and self-discovery, ultimately contributing to their overall growth and success in the future. Therefore, I support the viewpoint that a gap year is not an expensive waste of time, but rather a valuable investment in one's personal and professional development.

Model Essay #2:

Some young people look forward to a year of travelling, a gap year, before they begin work or university and see it as a chance to broaden their horizons. For others, this is an expensive waste of time. Which viewpoint do you agree with?

While some individuals advocate for the benefits of taking a gap year to travel before embarking on work or university, others argue that it is an extravagant and unproductive use of time and resources. I tend to lean towards the latter viewpoint, as I believe that a gap year can be a costly and unnecessary endeavor for many young people.

One of the primary concerns with taking a gap year for travel is the financial burden it can place on individuals and their families. Traveling for an extended period can incur significant expenses, including transportation, accommodation, and living costs, which may not be feasible for everyone. Moreover, the opportunity cost of not entering the workforce or pursuing higher education during this time can have long-term financial implications, especially in terms of missed career advancement and earning potential.

Furthermore, some argue that the time spent on a gap year could be better utilized in gaining practical work experience or pursuing further education. For instance, young individuals who enter the workforce or enroll in university immediately after completing their studies may have the opportunity to gain valuable skills, establish professional networks, and start building a solid foundation for their careers. Delaying these opportunities by taking a gap year for travel could hinder their progress and place them at a disadvantage compared to their peers.

From my own observations, I have seen instances where individuals who took a gap year for travel struggled to re-engage with academic or professional pursuits upon their return. The transition back to a structured environment can be challenging, and some individuals may find it difficult to readjust to the demands of work or higher education after an extended period of leisure and exploration.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge that a gap year for travel may offer certain benefits for personal development and cultural enrichment, I am inclined to believe that, for many young people, it represents an expensive and unproductive use of time. Instead, I believe that investing in education or gaining early work experience can provide a more effective and practical foundation for long-term success. Therefore, I align with the viewpoint that a gap year for travel is not a worthwhile pursuit for all individuals.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some young people look forward to a year of travelling, a gap year, before they begin work or university and see it as a chance to broaden their horizons. For others, this is an expensive waste of time. Which viewpoint do you agree with?

Model Essay #2:

Some young people look forward to a year of travelling, a gap year, before they begin work or university and see it as a chance to broaden their horizons. For others, this is an expensive waste of time. Which viewpoint do you agree with?

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