Summer is upon us, so what is a newly minted graduate to do? Head into the workforce? Immediately immerse his or herself into the next level of study? Or maybe take a break, for a gap-year? Sure, goofing off on a beach sounds good, but that will not help your career. So what exactly are we talking about? How does a gap year help you get a job?

Employers want well-rounded workers, and increasingly are placing value on students who have completed structured gap year programs. Employers say they want more than just grades. They seek a motivated applicant, confident, with life skills who can work positively in any environment.

Over the years, the gap year concept has changed. We used to think of it as “dropping out for a year.” Now, the options are endless. Many students want to make a difference by going overseas. If you are seeking ideas, look no further than Gapforce.

Based in London, Gapforce is dedicated to helping students make the right choice, organizing overseas volunteer projects that enable young people to become global citizens and make a real impact on the world.

Here in the US, look no further than AmeriCorps. More than 80,000 Americans participate each year, many using their service opportunity to help pay back student loans while giving something back.

A year to try out professional endeavors or explore new areas of the world is a good thing. But do not discount the obvious, a gap year really can be a well deserved breather. Whatever your choice, it’s important to recognize that taking a gap year will be seen as a plus by future employers.