EF Gap Year - The Globetrotter

The voyager program was the best possible program that I could’ve taken. Between the people I was surrounded with, the staff, and the cultures I was immersed in, I was able to learn and connect. I have grown so much and I will be so grateful to EF for that. Throughout the journey, I mostly felt supported, especially with having food allergies, however, in Japan, the first tour guide, and myself did not always see eye to eye, therefore I did not feel supported. However, once this situation was remedied, we were given a lovely tour director named Mari. She was kind and cordial with the group and very knowledgeable about the area which made our experience all the more wonderful we learned so much and I am so grateful to EF for having this program. Shout out to my blue group.

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

If I were to do my gap year abroad again, I would undoubtedly choose EF Gap Year again. Why? Because they truly care. From the moment I started my journey with EF, it was evident that their staff goes above and beyond to ensure every participant has a meaningful and fulfilling experience. A standout moment for me was during my internship placement. As a recent college graduate, I felt my initial placement didn’t align with the skills and value I knew I could bring to a company. Sensing my frustration, one of the program leaders took the time to meet with me over lunch. She genuinely listened to my concerns, got to know me on a personal and professional level, and worked with me to make sure my goals were reflected in my experience. This level of care and attention left a lasting impression on me. Beyond the incredible support from the EF team, the bonds I formed with people during my gap year are ones I’ll treasure for a lifetime. Whether it was fellow participants, locals I met during my travels, or the EF staff themselves, the connections I made continue to enrich my life in ways I never expected. EF Gap Year is more than just a program—it’s a life-changing experience led by people who genuinely want you to succeed and grow. I couldn’t recommend it more for anyone considering a gap year.