WHAT QUESTIONS TO ASK?

Take your time to select the right organisation: Use our handy check list : 1. Which Program To Select? Do you have a career in mind that your gap year can help you with? Going into Medicine or want to be a Doctor then seek out professional medical placements with some like MedFORCE. Alternatively, are you looking to join the Armed forces or need proactive leadership training then consider something like the Expedition Leaders Training program? If you do not have a career in mind do you want life skills like public speaking, personal confidence, or prefer to work in a specific area like with animals, or remote tribes. Top Tip: Programs where you go with a group, means a readymade new set of friends! 2. Ask About the Organisation Check out the organisation. For legal comeback make sure it is based in the UK. Make sure it is a real organisation with an office and staff – does it run Open Days? Can you meet staff, others who are looking to go before you sign up? Can you view the written Terms and Conditions that you need to sign? Top Tip: Turn up to their office un-announced. A good way to check they are real and also how they deal with the unexpected! 3. Ask About The Program Obtain details of the program. What you will be doing and when. Most overseas programs operate in difficult locations so you will need a degree of flexibility but can the UK based team answer your questions and come back to you with all the answers you need – who will look after you? Who will you work with? Top Tip: Do they have their own staff looking after you. You need someone responsible for your safety and enjoyment. 4. Before You Go. You will probably be going to a location you have never previously visited. Most people will have some concerns, feel scared, that’s only natural! Make sure the organisation you go with gives you the opportunity to meet face to face. Can you meet the others you will go with? Can you meet returning volunteers? Not just staff but others who have been there already? Top Tip: Check out Facebook to see real feedback and photographs of the organisation.