Sophie Jennings M 2022 Why did you choose to take a gap year? For me it was never a question of whether to take a gap year or not, I’d always looked forward to a shot at independence and a chance to explore a bit more of the world. I also thought there would be value in starting university having experienced more of life than I had after finishing my A-Levels. What did you do during your gap year? This year I have been lucky enough to do a mixture of things, all of which I’ve loved. I began where I think most of us did - at work full time at my local pub to earn some money! When the bank account felt full enough, I hopped on a flight to Kenya where I lived and worked with nine other ‘gappies’ at a prep school in Gilgil. After three months and heart wrenching goodbyes to both the children and my new friends, I flew back to England. Thankfully I didn’t have to stay for long and I was soon backpacking around Sophie at Machu Picchu, Peru
Sophie with her friend Daisy on safari in Nairobi, Kenya
Mexico, Guatemala and Peru with my school friends Millie and Maya (and Pippa joined us as soon as her first year of university finished). We spent ten weeks away fending for ourselves and taking in the incredible scenes. We also did far too much hiking if you ask me! I learnt to love reggaeton and I indulged in local ‘bebidas’ and Central American food, though thankfully I managed to avoid eating guinea pig! Returning back to reality, home and work was definitely difficult but I enjoyed the security of not having to plan where I would be in three days or having to worry about where I would find my next meal. The predictability of a Winchester night out was weirdly welcomed! Would you recommend taking a gap year? I would always recommend taking a gap year if you are able to! I’ll never forget the people I’ve met and the things I’ve been able to do and see. What do you think you’ve gained from the experience? It’s such a cliché but the most valuable things I’ll take with me from this year are memories and friendships. I was extremely fortunate to meet people through my pub, and then I became so close to the people with me in Kenya. I then of course solidified the ‘bestie statuses’ of the girls I went travelling to Central America with. Taking advantage of having no real responsibilities yet has meant that all I’ve done has been in the name of selfimprovement and fulfilment. I’m not saying I’ve found myself yet but I’m definitely a bit closer than I was! What’s next for you? This September I’m heading to the University of Bristol to study English literature. I’m seeing it as another opportunity to make new friends and have more fun, plus, after my brain’s year of rest and relaxation I’m definitely ready to dust off a few cobwebs. ■ The annual publication for St Swithun’s Old Girls and former staff
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