Taking a gap year after high school can be a transformative experience that offers numerous advantages. It provides an opportunity for personal growth, cultural immersion, and skill development through travel, volunteering, or work experiences. Step back, explore your passions, and gain clarity about your future goals.

Internships are professional learning experiences that allow high school students, college students, and recent graduates to take everything they’ve learned in school and apply it in a real-world situation. They help you narrow down and develop your career path and gain new skills for future jobs.

Job Shadowing involves spending time following a professional as they work. By observing them from a few hours to a few days, you can get a better understanding of their career and may gain experience in the field by helping with certain tasks.

Reach out to a professional from our Speakers Bureau for a job shadow opportunity!

Apprenticeships are post-secondary pathways designed for students to learn a skilled trade through a combination of on-the-job- training and classroom instruction. Learn more about apprenticeships through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

While all high school students must complete 40 volunteer hours in order to graduate, volunteering has lots of other positive benefits and is a great post-secondary option. From building self-esteem and confidence to gaining real-world experiences, it allows you to make a positive impact and develop your interests, which may even lead to a future career.