Gap Year Consultant Jobs: Are They Worth It for Recent Grads?

I'm intrigued by the idea of working as a consultant during my gap year. Has anyone done this before? What kind of experience or skills should I have, and is it a good use of a gap year?

Being a gap year consultant can certainly be a unique and engaging experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that this kind of work typically requires a broad knowledge of experiences, programs, and opportunities available during gap years, including travel programs, internships, and service projects. Depending on the organization or individuals you work with, hands-on experience or a deep understanding of student needs, academic structures and the overall environment of a gap year could be beneficial.

If you're fresh out of college, you might find the role challenging because you'll be expected to offer insight, guidance, and support to individuals aiming to optimize their own gap year experiences - often these individuals may be your same age or even older. However, if you spent your gap year (or years) engaged in diverse and enriching experiences, underwent internships, traveled extensively, or executed any unique project, that might contribute positively to your resources and guidance.

The value of a gap year job entirely depends on your personal goals and career prospects. If you see your future role in areas like college admissions, counseling, higher education, or even international education, travel, or relationships, a job like this might offer some interesting and valuable experience.

However, keep in mind it's a niche profession, and might be tricky to find openings, particularly if you're looking for roles that pay well. "Consulting" roles are often connected to broader organizations that deal with comprehensive student services. You might also need to navigate roles that may be internships or volunteer-based, particularly when you’re just starting.

All in all, if it aligns with your future aspirations or if you have an entrepreneurial spirit, it could be worth considering. But, take time to research, understand what the job entails, and identify the path you can build from there. It's not a traditional route, and you might need creativity to leverage it for your later career. But who knows? It could turn out to be a path that's just right for you.