Skip School, Travel: Education Beyond The Classroom

The rising cost of higher education is making many young people question whether they should skip school and travel the world instead. It is a very personal decision, based on individual goals and desires. While education is important, it is not confined to the classroom. Learning can take many forms, such as attending conferences, reading books, listening to podcasts, and speaking with experts. Travel, in particular, is a form of education that teaches valuable lessons about the world and oneself. It provides an opportunity to learn how to be independent and deal with uncomfortable situations. However, it is crucial to have a backup plan and enough money before embarking on a journey. Additionally, combining travel with school by taking advantage of student discounts and studying abroad can be a great alternative. Ultimately, the decision to skip school and travel depends on one's personal circumstances and priorities.

Travel teaches you about the world and yourself

Travel is an education in itself. It teaches you about the world and yourself. It provides you with the opportunity to learn about different cultures, languages, foods, and people. It helps you develop virtues like patience, humility, confidence, and independence.

When you travel, you leave behind the familiar and take on a world of new things. You are constantly learning, whether it is navigating a foreign country, making new friends, or overcoming difficult situations. You will encounter new cultures, friends, foods, and languages. You will also face challenges and obstacles that will test your problem-solving skills and ability to think outside the box.

Travel teaches you to be spontaneous and flexible. You will learn to go with the flow and embrace your impulsive side when things don't go according to plan. It also teaches you to appreciate the little things in life and to slow down and reflect on your experiences. You will treasure the beauty of things often taken for granted, like watching the sunset, savouring a delicious meal, or cherishing your friendships.

Travel can also help improve your mental health by revealing your strengths and showing you what is truly important to you. It can boost your self-awareness, confidence, and social skills. You will meet new people, try new things, and gain a first-hand perspective on new cultures and customs, making you more open-minded and adaptable.

Additionally, travel can teach you how to trust your intuition and make decisions in a brand-new environment. It will push you out of your comfort zone and help you discover your limits and boundaries. You will learn what makes you tick and what doesn't, allowing you to develop your likes and dislikes without influence or pressure from your usual community.

In conclusion, travel is a valuable teacher that provides a wealth of experiences and lessons that cannot always be gained in a classroom. It teaches you about the world and helps you discover more about yourself and your place in it.

School isn't for everyone

The traditional path of school, job, marriage, house, kids, retirement isn't for everyone. Some people are unsure of what they want to do with their lives and would rather travel and "figure life out". For these people, taking a gap year to travel the world can be a great option. It can give them direction in life and teach them about themselves and the world at large.

The Cost of Education

With the cost of higher education rising dramatically each year, it is worth considering whether to forgo college and instead use that money to travel the world. This is especially true if you are unsure of what you want to study. In many Western countries, it is common to take a gap year before starting university, and this can be a great opportunity to explore the world and grow up.

Education Comes in Many Forms

Delaying school does not mean stopping education. Learning is not confined to the classroom and can be done through travel, attending conferences, reading books, listening to podcasts, and speaking with experts.

Travel Teaches Important Lessons

Travel provides the opportunity to learn about the world and about yourself. It can teach you how to be more independent and how to deal with uncomfortable situations. It can also give you a different perspective on the world and help you to engage with different kinds of personalities and nationalities.

Combining School and Travel

However, it is not necessary to choose between school and travel. There are many opportunities to travel while in school, such as studying abroad, taking a gap year, or making use of student discounts and the long breaks between terms. You can also find a job that allows you to travel, such as teaching English abroad or working remotely.

The Importance of a Backup Plan

If you do decide to skip school to travel, it is important to have a backup plan. Make sure you have the necessary qualifications and language knowledge to find a job if needed. Also, consider having enough money saved up to cover your travel expenses and any unexpected costs.

You can always go back to school later

Travelling the world can be an enriching experience and a great opportunity to learn about different cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world. However, it is important to consider your long-term goals and the potential impact of delaying your education. Here are some reasons why you can always go back to school later:

Education is important but can take different forms:

Firstly, it is essential to recognise that education is a lifelong pursuit. While formal education in a classroom setting is valuable, it is not the only way to learn and grow. Travelling can provide a unique educational experience, allowing you to gain independence, cultural awareness, and a broader perspective on the world. It can teach you important life skills, such as adaptability, problem-solving, and communication. These skills are transferrable and can be advantageous in your future academic or professional endeavours.

Delaying school can help you gain clarity and purpose:

If you are unsure about your academic or career path, taking time off to travel can provide an opportunity for self-discovery and exploration. Many young people face the pressure of choosing a major or career path without fully understanding their interests and passions. By taking a break from school, you can gain valuable life experiences, mature, and develop a clearer sense of direction. This can lead to better academic performance and a more fulfilling educational journey when you return.

You can gain valuable skills and experiences that complement your education:

Travelling can enhance your resume and make you a more well-rounded candidate for future academic or job applications. It demonstrates independence, initiative, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Additionally, you can develop valuable soft skills, such as communication, cross-cultural understanding, and adaptability, which are highly valued by educational institutions and employers.

You can take advantage of the flexibility that online learning offers:

Today, many universities and colleges offer online learning options, providing you with the flexibility to pursue your education from anywhere in the world. Online courses often allow you to study at your own pace, making it possible to balance your travel plans with your academic commitments. This way, you can continue your education while exploring different places and gaining new experiences.

You can build a network and gain global connections:

Travelling allows you to meet people from diverse backgrounds and build a global network of friends and connections. These connections can be invaluable as you return to your academic pursuits. They can provide insights, opportunities for collaboration, and even potential references for future academic or job applications.

While travelling the world is a tempting proposition, it is essential to carefully consider your personal circumstances, goals, and financial situation. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of delaying your education and ensure that you have a plan in place to support your future academic endeavours. Remember, you can always take a break from school to travel and return with a fresh perspective and a wealth of experiences.

You can travel and study at the same time

Travelling while studying is a great way to broaden your horizons, gain new experiences, and meet international students. It can also help you develop valuable professional and linguistic skills. Here are some tips to help you travel and study simultaneously:

Funding Your Travels

Funding your travels while studying can be challenging, but it is possible. Consider getting a part-time job while studying to fund your adventures. Students typically work 19 hours a week on average, leaving ample time for studying and travelling. On-campus jobs, such as a barista or library assistant, can be convenient and eliminate commuting time. Alternatively, local restaurants and bars offer fun work environments for students. Avoid working nights, as it can be tiring and disruptive to your studies.

Language Skills

English tutors are in high demand in non-English speaking countries. You can advertise your services on campus and set your rates. This can be a great way to earn money while practising your language skills.

Internships and Office Jobs

If you want work experience relevant to your degree, consider an internship or office job. These positions may require more effort to secure, but they can provide valuable experience and help you build your resume. Contact your university's career centre for assistance in finding these opportunities.

Study in a Cheap City

Choosing a low-cost city or country to study can help you save money. Latin America, Germany, Poland, and Malaysia are known for being budget-friendly locations for students. Additionally, look for student discounts at museums, movie theatres, stores, and restaurants. Cooking your own meals and walking instead of taking public transportation can also help stretch your budget further.

Online Courses

Many colleges offer online courses that provide greater flexibility for students who want to travel while studying. With online courses, you can control your schedule and learn at your own pace. However, good time management skills and access to reliable WiFi are essential. Keep in mind that you will need to arrange for proctored exams with local international schools. Online courses are typically cheaper than regular ones, so you can use the money saved for travel expenses.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Travelling during off-peak seasons or avoiding holidays can help you find cheaper flights and accommodations. Additionally, consider flying with low-cost airlines, which often offer more affordable tickets despite potential delays or luggage restrictions.

Stay in Hostels

Instead of international hotels, opt for hostels, which are typically more affordable for students. While you may have to share a room with other guests, hostels provide a cost-effective way to explore new places.

Take Advantage of Student Discounts

As a student, you are eligible for various discounts on flights, trains, hostels, and tourist attractions. Make sure to inquire about student discounts wherever you go.

Study Abroad Programs

Consider studying abroad for a semester or a year. Many universities offer exchange programs or summer schools that allow you to immerse yourself in a new culture while continuing your studies. This can be a great way to travel and gain new experiences without putting your studies on hold.

You can learn useful skills outside of school

Travelling can teach you a wide range of skills that are useful in both your personal and professional life.

Communication Skills

Communication is one of the most important and transferable career skills. Travelling constantly challenges you to break down communication barriers, whether it be with people from different cultural backgrounds or those who speak a different language. You learn to be a better listener, to read body language, and to adapt your communication style to suit the situation.

Planning and Organisation Skills

Planning and organisation are key to a successful trip. You need to be able to visualise your journey, evaluate new information, and adapt your plans when things don't go according to schedule. These skills are also important in the workplace, where you may need to manage projects and adapt to changing circumstances.

Budget Management

Long-term travel usually requires careful budgeting. By watching your pennies over a long period, you learn about financial prioritisation and how to make your money go further. These skills can be useful if you want to advance up the management ladder, as they will help you to understand and plan finances for a business or department.

Resilience

When travelling, things rarely go according to plan. You will encounter challenges and difficult situations, and you will need to learn to manage and recover from them. This builds resilience, which is valuable in the workplace as it helps you to stay calm in a crisis, deal with conflict, and take constructive criticism on board.

Problem-Solving

Every journey is different, and travel often involves navigating unfamiliar places and situations. You will need to think on your feet to overcome the obstacles you encounter. Problem-solving is a highly valued skill by employers, as it helps you to achieve your goals and gives you more control over your environment.

Independence

Travel provides an opportunity to learn about the world and yourself. It can teach you how to be more independent and how to deal with uncomfortable situations. This increased self-reliance can be beneficial in both your personal and professional life, as it may help you to feel more confident and capable.

Frequently asked questions