Jackson Balin joins me from Queenstown, New Zealand to reflect on what he calls his “growth year." After realizing during his first year of university that he wanted more time for exploration, challenge, and perspective, Jackson stepped away from the conventional timeline and spent the year working in Tennessee and New Zealand through destination work experiences through Adventure EXP.

We talk about culture shock, difficult friendships, resilience, meaningful work, and the surprising ways that service jobs and travel can shape a young adult’s understanding of purpose and identity. Jackson also shares how this year helped him reconnect with his love of learning and clarify his next step academically, while still embracing what he calls “the scenic route” through life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Jackson’s concept of a “growth year” and why he believes the phrase fits better than “gap year”

What it felt like to leave university after realizing he was disconnected from his path

The reality of working destination jobs in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Queenstown, New Zealand

How work experiences can build resilience, empathy, and interpersonal awareness

Why challenging experiences often become the most transformative parts of a gap year

Thoughts on work, dignity, and learning from people with vastly different backgrounds

How travel and work abroad helped Jackson gain clarity about returning to school

Why he believes students should actively seek experiences that challenge them

Advice for students considering destination work programs or a nontraditional path

Resources and Links Mentioned:

Adventure EXP

University of Austin (UATX)

Robert Putnam’s book Bowling Alone

Trevor Noah's podcast interview with Robert Putnam

Julia's gap year counseling: EnRoute Consulting - get info at enroutegapyear.com

More episodes and resources at gapyearradiopodcast.com