We were pleased to see Helen Kidwell (8.03-08) back at the College last week (Monday 13th May) to share her knowledge of gap years with eager Lower Sixth pupils.
After leaving Malvern, Helen went to the University of West England (UWE) to study Graphic Design. In the summer of her second year, Helen travelled to Borneo with Raleigh International to explore the country and build a rainforest walkway to increase eco-tourism. She was inspired. Following a change of career path in 2016, Helen travelled to Costa Rica to start work for Raleigh creating content to support the organisation’s work in this country.
Helen continues to work in Costa Rica, now working for Serendipity Adventures, a custom tour company, focused on nature, adventure and culture; she is a huge advocate for the horizon-widening powers a gap year can offer. Helen offered pupils her top tips for a successful gap year, which included research and planning. She believes such an experience can give real-world experience, be brilliant for developing skills or learning another language, build new friendships, look fantastic on cvs or university applications, and give career direction, as well as creating positive change.
A big thank you to Helen for sharing her expertise with pupils. If you are willing to give a talk to Malvern College pupils about your career or profession, please get in touch with us: [email protected].
