Anyone with interesting gap year stories from Canada?

I'm curious about personal stories from people who've done a gap year in Canada. What were your biggest challenges or surprises, and did it change your perspective on life or future plans?

It's wonderful that you're interested in gap year experiences in Canada! This country, with its diverse environments and cultures, presents a lot of opportunities for a rich, fulfilling gap year.

From speaking to various students, I've heard a multitude of fascinating stories. Particularly, one student spent a part of their gap year immersed in nature while working in a national park. This was a transformative experience for them, as they developed new skills not only in patrolling, trail maintenance, and conservation efforts but also picked up on some outdoor survival skills. They faced the challenge of adjusting to a routine that was remarkably different from the structure of high school or college - days could start as early as dawn and often included hands-on, physical labor. However, they found great satisfaction and a sense of purpose in their work.

One of the surprises that this student experienced was their evolving perspective on the natural world. This experience prompted them to switch their intended major from engineering to environmental science when they finally enrolled in university. They mentioned how their year off gave them a new appreciation for the great outdoors and a sense of responsibility to protect it.

Also, I've learned about another student who decided to explore the urban side of Canada, working in customer service in Toronto. Surprisingly, they found the diversity and multiculturalism of the city to be an educational experience in itself. One major challenge was living on their own for the first time; however, they considered it a valuable learning experience in independence and budgeting.

Overall, gap years in Canada seem to offer a plethora of varied experiences that can certainly challenge and surprise students while being instrumental in shaping their future outlook. But remember, it's crucial to keep an open mind, be ready for unexpected challenges, and fully immerse oneself in the experience to truly gain from a gap year.