In large numbers, high school graduates are going to travel and work in various parts of the world rather than commencing full-time studies at university. There are many reasons for this choice but in my opinion, the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.
Certainly, students who travel do benefit from a different perspective of the world. The experiences they gain from interacting with people of other backgrounds or cultures is a valuable benefit of travel. In addition, the activity of finding work while traveling is also a maturing process which would build a degree of confidence in a young traveler.
However, the disadvantages are more significant. Students who graduate from high school are typically 17 or 18 years old. Given the escalating dangers in today’s world, this age is too young for a person to be travelling solo. Problems and difficulties can arise that require mental and emotional maturity and a young person of 17 or 18 is simply not equipped to handle these unique pressures. In addition, for a young student, the transition into the university environment is not as difficult as it would be if they spent a year or two away from academic study. It is a far better use of their time to attend university, mature emotionally through the experience, and become more aware of a future career path.
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