Have you been dreaming of your perfect gap year for awhile now? You keep putting it off because of things such as having a little bit more money, getting work experience or not having enough time up your sleeve? Are these niggly excuses holding you back from just going for it and doing something new and exciting this year?
We've put together a list of 3 things that may be holding you back from turning your dream gap year into a reality and joining EA Ski and Snowboard next winter to train, qualify and work as a ski instructor. As they say, there's no time like the present and even though job's fill your pocket, adventure fills the soul.
WHATS HOLDING YOU BACK?
1. I don't speak Japanese or much French, how could I live and work in a country like Japan or Switzerland?
Is it really a good idea to go to a new country with a completely different language? Of course it is. Languages and culture are what make a country unique and enriching. Plus, EA Ski & Snowboard also help you by partnering with ski schools that are English speaking and get you set up with bank accounts and accommodation.
Emily, who is completing a season in Japan this year said:
"It’s a lot less stressful than it seems, trust me! ... Once you arrive, EA organises a bus for your transfer to the temporary lodging as well as some introductory information to the area you are in."
See her full blog about life in Niseko here
2. I'm not sure whether I want to use my visa now?
Many of our interns complete their winter season and then stay on for the summer doing exciting things such as surf instructing, road tripping and exploring. Your visa and gap year experience doesn't end with the course, it's up to you what you make of your visa.
PLUS - The fantastic thing about ski instructing is that it is a skill. If your aim is to do multiple seasons ski instructing then you will soon qualify for sponsorship visas in countries such as New Zealand, Japan and Canada. You won't have to worry about what visa you've already used because you could be eligible for another one.
3. I can't afford it
We understand that this course comes at a cost. If you confirm in advance we help you set up a payment plan that suits you and if you choose a program such as Club Med in Japan, there is a low program cost and a guaranteed salary meaning that you can earn your courses costs back throughout the season! Plus with the food, accommodation and beer included, you'll find you don't have a real need to be spending either.
