1) John, a 17-year-old from London, UK, and Kyle, an 18-year-old from Cape Town, South Africa, have made resolutions

him with the chance to immerse himself in a new culture and develop important life skills such as adaptability and independence.

On the other hand, Kyle has decided to take a gap year and travel to various countries in Africa to volunteer with different organizations. He believes that this experience will broaden his understanding of different cultures, enhance his interpersonal skills, and make a positive impact in the communities he visits. Kyle is particularly interested in working with environmental conservation projects and hopes to gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving natural habitats.

Both John and Kyle have made thoughtful decisions for their academic year outside of traditional education. Let"s analyze their choices in more detail.

John"s decision to participate in an internship in Kazakhstan can be seen as a proactive step towards his career goals in geology. By choosing an internship in a country known for its diverse natural resources and focus on extraction industries, John will have the opportunity to obtain hands-on experience in his field of interest. This practical experience will complement his theoretical knowledge gained from academic studies. Furthermore, engaging in a student exchange program will expose John to a new cultural environment, allowing him to develop his intercultural competency and adaptability skills. These qualities are highly valued in today"s globalized world and can significantly enhance his career prospects.

On the other hand, Kyle"s decision to take a gap year and volunteer in Africa demonstrates his commitment to personal growth and making a positive impact on society. By immersing himself in various communities and participating in volunteer projects, Kyle will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by different cultures and develop empathy and compassion. Working with environmental conservation projects will not only enhance his understanding of ecological issues but also provide valuable hands-on experience in the field. This experience can also serve as a strong foundation for his future studies or career in environmental science or related fields.

While John"s choice is more specialized and focused on his academic and career goals, Kyle"s decision offers a broader range of experiences and opportunities for personal development. Both choices have their merits and can greatly contribute to the students" overall growth and maturity.

In conclusion, John"s decision to participate in an internship in Kazakhstan and Kyle"s choice to take a gap year and volunteer in Africa are both commendable and well-thought-out. John"s decision allows him to gain practical experience in his chosen field and immerse himself in a new culture, while Kyle"s choice provides him with diverse experiences and the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. Ultimately, both choices have the potential to greatly enrich the students" lives and contribute to their personal and professional development.