A period of time, typically a year, taken between life stages, such as high school and college or college and employment, intentionally dedicated to personal growth, travel, or other enriching experiences can be meaningfully incorporated into a professional document. For example, a recent graduate might list time spent volunteering abroad before starting university.
Effectively presenting this experience demonstrates valuable skills gained, like adaptability, cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and independence attributes increasingly sought after by employers. Historically viewed with some skepticism, these experiences are now often seen as enhancing a candidate’s profile, showcasing initiative and a broader perspective. It signals a proactive approach to personal and professional development.
