Taking a gap year between high school and college can be a great way to explore your interests, gain new experiences, develop skills that will benefit you in the future. For me, my gap year was unforgettable adventure that allowed me （step） outside my comfort zone and see the world in new ways.
During my gap year, I traveled to several （country）including Thailand, Japan, and Peru. I （volunteer）at a wildlife preserve in Thailand, where I worked with elephants, monkeys, and other animals. In Japan, I taught English to elementary school children, and in Peru, I worked on a farming project with a local community.
These experiences were greatly rewarding and taught me valuable lessons about the world and myself. I learned how to communicate （effective） with people from different cultures, how to adapt new environments and situations, and how tobe more self-sufficient and resourceful.
In addition to my travels, I also spent time （explore）my passions and hobbies. I took art classes, learned how to cook new dishes, and read extensively abouttopics interested me. These activities helped me to develop my creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. So far these skills （be）invaluable in shaping my ideas and I'm looking forward to continuing to improve them throughout my life.
