The term “gap year” is sometimes used to describe an intentional period of time after completing undergraduate studies when you can engage in resume-building activities and prepare for next steps in your career journey or graduate education.

Below are some ways to gain experience and build your resume during your gap year(s). 

Fellowships

A fellowship is a professional development opportunity (ranging from months to years) in a specialized program. Fellowships can include conducting research with faculty and graduate students. Some research fellowships allow you to develop technical skills which can help you prepare for graduate school. Some fellowships receive stipends or other forms of compensation.

• Zintellect
• Handshake
• ProFellow Fellowships Database
• Idealist

Opportunities Abroad

Teaching abroad allows you to gain experience while experiencing a new culture. There are many agencies and organizations that connect teachers with schools around the world. Learn more about opportunities abroad.

Service Programs

These organizations offer 1-2 year opportunities to gain professional skills and give back to communities. Programs include disaster relief, environmental stewardship, teaching, public health and more. Some programs offer compensation such as living stipends, insurance and educational awards.

• AmeriCorps
• California Volunteers
• City Year
• Peace Corps
• Teach for America

Continuing and Professional Education

Certification Programs

Continuing education programs offer skills-based certifications and credentials in your field of interest. UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) offers many examples, from website development to wine making.

• Continuing and Professional Education at UC Davis

Online Learning Platforms

To supplement your UC Davis degree, these online learning platforms allow you to take specialized courses for no cost or low cost. Some programs offer certificates and digital badges to help you highlight your achievements.

• Coursera
• EdX
• FreeCodeCamp
• LinkedIn Learning (can access for free through your public library)

Post-bac Programs

Recent college graduates can complete a post-baccalaureate (“post-bac”) program in preparation to apply to graduate and professional schools. Typically post-bac programs are 1-2 years in duration.

• California Postbaccalaureate Consortium
• NIH Research Training Postbac Program
• Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP@UC Davis)

Let us help! Visit the Career Center for support as you prepare for your gap year experiences!