Imagine standing at a crossroads, with one path leading to the expected, traditional route of high school straight to university. But you wanted more. You craved adventure, self-discovery and a break from the well-trodden path. So, you made a bold choice: the gap year.

During my gap year, I dabbled in various things, but what really shaped me were the experiences I'm about to share. Working in my father’s business during this time was eye-opening. It was like peeking behind the curtain of the business world, gaining insights that would shape my future career. 

However, not everyone saw the value in my decision to take a gap year. I often faced criticism from my relatives who believed I was wasting precious time, but little did they know, it was laying the foundation for something greater. I saw this as an opportunity to change perceptions, which led me to start my Instagram blog - Journey Discovery, where I shared my gap year experiences and built a supportive community.

One of the highlights of my gap year was attending a summer school at Cambridge University. Talk about stepping out of my comfort zone! Those two weeks were more than just a chance to experience university life early; they were about pushing my limits, embracing independence and immersing myself in different cultures.

I even found myself getting into sports, a twist I never saw coming. Whether it was a morning run or a calming yoga session, these activities grounded me in the present moment. Yet, a core belief has always resonated within me: the responsibility to embrace and celebrate our cultural roots. This powerful conviction became the seed of my passion project, "Rediscover Bharat." Through this blog, I embarked on a journey to share India's rich culture and heritage. 

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents and the guidance of my teachers and mentors. Their belief in me propelled me forward, shaping me into the person I am today.

As I reflect on my journey of resume building, I realize it was more than just a checklist of achievements. It was a journey of self-discovery, where I uncovered my true passions and values. In the end, my gap year wasn't just about preparing for college; it was about stepping away from the traditional path to finding my own unique way forward. Thinking about taking a gap year? My biggest advice would be to embrace the unexpected! You never know how the things that surprise you the most might just unlock the door to your true self.