What to Expect in Your First Week Abroad
You’ve packed your bags, said your goodbyes, and stepped off the plane—now what? Your first week abroad can be one of the most exciting (and overwhelming) parts of your study abroad journey. At Joy Worldwide Inc., we believe preparation is key, so we’re breaking down what to expect and how to make the most of it.
Apps & Hacks to Use to Get Ready for Study Abroad
Preparing to study abroad isn’t just about buying luggage and checking your passport—it’s about getting organized, informed, and mentally ready for a big life transition. Whether you're weeks or months away from departure, here are the tools, apps, and mindset hacks that are helpful to keep you on track:
Changing the Narrative: Black Representation in Global Education
Study abroad should reflect the world we live in—dynamic, evolving, and rooted in transformation.
At Joy Worldwide Inc., we believe representation isn’t a detail—it’s the foundation for global opportunity, empowerment, and belonging.
What Makes a Great Foundation Partner? How We Collaborate for Global Access
At Joy Worldwide Inc., our mission is clear: to create equitable access to global experiences for the African American youth who have historically been left out of the study abroad narrative. But we don’t do this work alone. Behind every life-changing passport stamp and cultural exchange is a network of committed partners who share our vision for a more inclusive world.
So, what makes a great foundation partner?
Bridging the Gap: Why Funding Black Study Abroad Students Matters
Studying abroad is often described as life-changing — and for good reason. It offers the chance to explore new cultures, learn in a global classroom, build lifelong friendships, and grow personally and professionally. But for many Black students, this opportunity remains out of reach as they lack access.
At Joy Worldwide Inc., we believe international education should be a right, not a luxury. And that belief starts with funding.
Why More Black Students Should Study Abroad—and How to Make It Happen
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. It opens doors to new cultures, ideas, and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Yet, despite these benefits, Black students remain underrepresented in study abroad programs. This gap is not only a missed opportunity for individual growth but also for expanding diversity and inclusion on a global scale.
Partnering for Impact: How Travel Brands Can Support Diverse Global Learning
At Joy Worldwide Inc., we believe that access to global education isn’t just a privilege—it’s a catalyst for equity, innovation, and community transformation. As more students from historically underrepresented backgrounds seek life-changing experiences abroad, the opportunity and responsibility for travel brands to step up has never been greater.
The Best Study Abroad Destinations for HBCU Students
Studying abroad offers powerful opportunities to expand your worldview, build global networks, and deepen your personal and academic journey.
If you're an HBCU student wondering where to go, here are some of the top study abroad destinations that offer rich cultural exchange, academic excellence, and meaningful opportunities for students of color:
Student Spotlight: Dominique Gooden in Australia
“The best way I can describe family life in my host country is casual and intentional. Many couples have kids and are intentional with protecting their time to be present with their families outside of work and during holidays. Many employers also recognize that employees are deeply involved in family life and may be juggling work and raising children. So there is not much pressure for employees to engage in work when they are not 'on the clock'.”
How Joy Worldwide Is Expanding Global Education Access for African American Students
International education doesn’t just change where you are — it changes who you become. It opens minds, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and empowers students to reimagine their potential on a global scale.
However, there is a large gap between races traveling abroad and having international experiences as Black students reached a record high of 6.4% participation in study abroad programs during the 2018–2019 academic year.
Self-Care Tips for the Weeks Before You Study Abroad
As exciting as it is to prepare for a study abroad experience, the weeks leading up to departure can feel like a blur of logistics, goodbyes, and anticipation. That’s why these days deserve care. Not just planning, but real, intentional self-care.
Here are a few ways to stay grounded, present, and even joyful during the transition.
How to Choose a Study Abroad Location
Studying abroad can be one of the most transformative experiences of your life—but with so many incredible destinations out there, choosing the right place can feel overwhelming. Whether you're planning your first trip or still exploring options, here are a few things to consider when deciding where to go:
Returning Home From Study Abroad Tips
Studying abroad is full of firsts—your first time feeling truly independent. But there’s one part of the journey that doesn’t get talked about enough: coming home.
Whether you’re returning after a semester, a summer, or a full year abroad, the transition can be surprisingly emotional. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the re-entry process with confidence and care:
Transferable Skills from Studying Abroad
Studying abroad is more than just an exciting travel opportunity. It’s a powerful learning experience that equips students with essential transferable skills — the kind that employers actively seek out during the hiring process. Here are some key transferable skills that you can gain from studying abroad and how they can boost your job search in the future:
Student Spotlight: Aricka Coriolan in Spain
“During my time studying abroad in Barcelona, I noticed how family life is very family-oriented, much like what I’m used to back home in the U.S. Families in Spain prioritize spending time together, whether it’s sharing meals, celebrating traditions, or simply enjoying each other’s company. I often saw multiple generations living under one roof or regularly gathering, and there’s a deep sense of respect and care for elders that really reminded me of my own family dynamic.”
How to Choose the Right Study Abroad Program Provider
Thinking of studying abroad? You’ve made the exciting decision to take your education global—but now comes the big question: Which program provider should you go with? From ISEP to AIFS Abroad, USAC to CIEE, your options are wide-ranging and tailored to different needs, budgets, and destinations.
Grad School Abroad: What Are the Benefits? How Can You Do It?
Studying abroad doesn’t have to end at the undergraduate level. For many students, pursuing graduate studies abroadcan be a transformative, career-boosting, and personally enriching experience. But what makes grad school abroad worth considering? And how can you take the first steps to make it happen?
Joy Worldwide Inc. Photo Contest Winners 2025
We’re excited to announce the winners of the Joy Worldwide Inc. Photo Contest! These stunning photos capture unique perspectives and unforgettable moments from our participants' study abroad journeys.
To dive deeper, we asked our winners two questions: What does your submitted photo represent to you? and How has your study abroad experience already impacted or changed you? Their answers revealed personal transformations, newfound perspectives, and unforgettable memories shaped by their experiences abroad.
Student Spotlight: Nicholas Carter in Japan
“In Japan, family life is often characterized by deep respect for elders, strong intergenerational bonds, and clearly defined roles within the household. I've noticed that many families prioritize communal activities like shared meals, even if members have busy work or school schedules. It's also common to see multi-generational households, especially in rural areas, where grandparents help raise children.”
Joy Worldwide Inc. Photo Contest Finalists 2025
We’re excited to announce the Joy Worldwide Inc. Study Abroad Photo Contest, where our students can showcase their incredible moments abroad! Whether they’re capturing stunning landscapes, sharing a piece of culture, or snapping themselves in unique destinations, we love seeing the world through their lens. Here are our top 3 finalists in each category: