GAP compass story

GAP compass was born from personal experience when a young woman traveling had more questions than she could find answers to. In 2019, after deciding to take a gap year, Lukrecija realized that freedom comes with responsibility, and endless possibilities often make choosing more difficult. She later studied psychology and explored the topic of gap years academically, conducting research and participating in conferences. Recognizing that the uncertainty, fears, and growth experiences of her own gap year were universal for many young people, she decided to create a mentoring program. As GAP compass took its first steps, traveler Aida joined the team, bringing her strengths in structure and project management.

Today, the two travelers continue to explore the world of gap years — both in theory and through their own journeys — and share their knowledge with young people. The GAP compass team gives presentations at schools and events, collaborates with journalists, and shares insights on social media. For those with personal questions or plans to organize a gap year, we offer individual (and family) online consultations to help plan activities, finances, and discuss other important aspects.

If you would like to invite us to your event or are interested in a consultation, feel free to get in touch. Together on untrodden paths!

After finishing high school, Lukrecija wanted to get to know herself and the world, so she took a gap year. During that time, she worked as a nanny in Spain, volunteered on a horse farm in a small village in the middle of nowhere in Argentina, backpacked solo in South America, completed flight attendant training, and worked on an apple farm in Norway.

Later, she continued traveling and lived in Italy, the USA, Spain, Lithuania and the Netherlands during her studies.
She currently works as a neuropsychologist, conducts research on gap years, and leads GAP compass.

Aida

Lukrecija

Exhausted from the academically intense IB program, curious about languages, and encouraged by her mom, Aida took a second gap year (if counting her exchange year in the USA). She worked as a nanny in France through the Au Pair program and volunteered at two hostels in Mexico.

Inspired by travel and cultures, Aida attended Minerva University, studying in the U.S., South Korea, Taiwan, India, Argentina, the UK, and Germany, and graduated with a degree in Business Operations. Her global network supports GAP compass every day! Aida is now a project manager, handling all aspects of GAP compass’s business operations.

Meet the Team

Gap Year Experiences

After my gap year, I truly began to enjoy being alone. I had always appreciated it, but now even more so — because I understand what I need to reflect on and how to be with myself. Many experiences feel deeply enriching, bringing a sense of fulfillment. A gap year teaches you inner strength. I can honestly say that now I’m not afraid of anything. I feel like I could go anywhere and do anything.
– Migle (19)

During my travels, my attitude toward Lithuania changed dramatically. I returned feeling completely different — more aware of the things here that I truly cherish.
– Egle (18)

I would go there to swim, lie down, and simply think. It felt a bit like after a massage — a deep inner peace. A sense of calm, knowing that you are living well now compared to before, feeling that you are close to your peak.
– Jokubas (20)

Now that my gap year is over, it feels like anything is possible. I’m no longer afraid to make mistakes, and I have much more confidence in myself.
– Saule (19)