[Stew]

I think your dad would be keen on the idea given what you've said above. Going away and living on your own for a year in a country that's a million miles away from home (in terms of distance and culture) looks very good to prospective employers.

It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and if you think you could put up with life away from home for a while I think you should do it. If you want to of course.

Is this one of the situations where deep down you really know what you want to do but want other people to come to the same decision? If so, **** what other people think - do what you want to do.