Gap Year Escape

Graduates: Amar Hussain 

Course:   BSc Management and Strategy

Company:   Gap Year Escape 

What does your business do?

Gap Year Escape is a travel website aimed at budget and student travellers and backpackers. The site provides advice, inspiration and entertainment to those embarking on trips.

How did you get started?

After graduating in 2009 I decided I didn't want to go straight into work and wanted to take out a year to travel. I found that I wasn't able to find the information I needed for my own travels and therefore decided to set up a portal of my own. The site was also my way of funding my travels. It started making revenue three months in and six months later I was travelling the world and living off an online income. Being location independent has always been a dream.

How has your time at Aston helped you set your own business?

The placement year was a huge learning curve and a great experience for personal development. I picked up many soft skills from various societies and groups I was involved with over the years. The other huge draw is that you don't know who you're going to meet and the connections you'll make. One minute you're an 18 year old student and the next you're setting up a business and have a network of bright individuals working across some of the most powerful businesses in the world.

Aside from your studies, how do you look back on, your time at Aston?

I look back at Aston with some very fond memories. I made lifelong friends and the experience shaped who I am today.