Taken from the Telegraph 14th September 2010:

‘Graduates who take gap years earn higher starting salaries than those who continue their studies straight after school, a study indicates. Researchers found the confidence and independence gained from working or holidaying abroad enabled graduates to command about £1,000 a year more than those who chose not to go away.

The Study also found gap year students were more likely to find happiness in their careers, having more time to plan their futures properly.’