noun. A year-long period of travel; especially succeeding one’s education and prior unto seeking employment

noun. A year spent by an apprentice travelling and honing his skills prior unto the professional practice of his trade

"In a kind of wanderjahr prolonged for decades, young people will try out jobs on a temporary basis, float in and out of their parents 'homes, hit the Europass-and-hostel circuit, pick up extra courses and degrees, and live with different people in different places."