Carlito’s Self-Reflection on a Gap Year in Finland

Carlito Cascone returned from Finland after participating in the Child and Family Development and Education program. Carlito graduated from Hiram College and was taking a gap year between college and jumping in to a career, as opposed to a gap year between high school and college.

Here he tells us how his experiences have shaped his life and why his gap year volunteer abroad experience was such an amazing trip.

“This volunteer experience was different… amazing, but different. I found myself questioning my initial thoughts of exchange years in general. People told me it was a waste of time and money, while others said it was amazing and should be a wholesome experience. I agree with both opinions, but not the way you would think.

Those who think a volunteer year, exchange year, or gap year is a waste of money would most likely lump therapy and mental health in the same category. This program, whether purposely designed or accidental, has the capability to change everything about the way you think, act, and perceive the world. That early, experience of growth is paramount to healthy development. And the more expectations you have beforehand the better.

I had many expectations before my volunteer year. A job, money, friends, I wanted them all, and I was unwilling to compromise. I wanted a Ctrl+C/Ctrl+V of my previous life. Without knowing it, I was terrified of the idea of change, especially at such an intense level. So, the more flawed you are as an individual and the more expectations you have before your trip, the better because your whole world is about to change.

Then again, for those who are of sound mind and do not wish for existential dread, please unburden yourself of any expectations. This is the best way to experience a new place. Now, you’ll see every new experience as an adventure, instead of something to be compared with your port of origin. My best experiences came after I unburdened myself of previous expectations. And by that I mean, had my expectations beaten out of me by each individual challenge. It was a slow process; it was a worthwhile process. And I would do it all again in an instant.”

Thanks for sharing with us, Carlito!

For each person a gap year is different. Whether it be allowing for personal growth, developing experience within a particular field or even allowing yourself the opportunity to experience things you wouldn’t have had the chance in any other setting.

If Carl’s gap year trip has inspired you, then visit our gap year programs in Finland for further inspiration!