How Study Abroad Shapes Gen Z Into Global Citizens
Gen Z has grown up in a world that moves fast. They’ve experienced global crises, technological revolutions, and cultural shifts—all before the age of 25. They’re connected, informed, and passionate. But there’s one experience that can’t be downloaded, scrolled through, or simulated: living and learning in another country.
Travel as a Catalyst for Community Change
Studying abroad is more than a chance to explore new cities or check off bucket-list destinations. For scholarship students, it’s a transformative opportunity — a way to step outside your comfort zone, connect with diverse communities, and create meaningful impact both personally and socially.
Finding Your People Abroad: The Unexpected Art of Making Friends
When students head overseas, one of the first questions they often ask themselves isn’t about classes, food, or even language—it’s: “How will I make friends?”
On paper, it sounds simple. You pack your bags, arrive in a new country, and meet people from all over the world. But the reality can feel much different. That moment can feel daunting but it’s also where the growth begins.
Why Every Major Can Benefit from Studying Abroad And Where to Go
Studying abroad isn’t just a fun adventure — it’s a career-boosting, perspective-expanding experience that helps students develop global skills, adaptability, and cultural awareness. While the benefits are universal, certain majors can gain unique advantages depending on where they study. Here’s a look at a few fields and the best international destinations.
Why Study Abroad Builds the Leaders of Tomorrow
In today’s global economy, employers are looking for talent that is adaptable, resourceful, and culturally fluent. Study abroad programs cultivate exactly these traits, making students not only academically enriched but ready to thrive in professional environments. By supporting these experiences, donors and partners are shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
The Hidden Skills You Gain While Studying Abroad
When people think about studying abroad, they often picture weekend trips to new cities, exploring local cuisines, or practicing a new language with classmates. While all of that is true, there’s another layer to the experience that’s not always obvious: the career-boosting skills you develop along the way.
Adjusting Your Body and Mind Abroad
So, you’ve landed in your host country. The excitement is real, but so is the exhaustion. Between new time zones, different foods, and a brand-new rhythm of life, it’s normal to feel like your body and mind are still catching up. Don’t worry, every student goes through this transition, and with a few intentional steps, you’ll be feeling like yourself again in no time.
Building Community Abroad and Embracing the Challenges
Studying abroad is a powerful adventure — filled with new languages, unfamiliar streets, and moments of wonder. But alongside the excitement come real challenges: feeling far from home, navigating cultural differences, and figuring out how to belong in a place that isn’t yet yours. Here are a few ways students can build community abroad — and how those challenges along the way become opportunities for growth.
Why Adaptability Matters When Studying Abroad
In a new country, things rarely go exactly as planned — and that’s not a bad thing. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar public transport, adjusting to cultural norms, or just figuring out where to get groceries, your ability to adapt is one of the most important tools you’ll bring with you. In this post, we explore why adaptability is essential for students studying abroad and how it can positively shape your academic, social, and personal experience.
Building Your Network Before You Even Arrive: Getting Connected Abroad
Studying abroad strongly revolves around making connection along the way. And while many students wait until they’ve landed to meet people, the strongest study abroad experiences often begin with a network that’s built before departure.
Here’s how students can begin creating meaningful connections — locally and globally — before arriving in their host country:
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:
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?
Why Gen Z Needs Study Abroad More Than Ever
Gen Z has grown up in a world that moves fast. They’ve experienced global crises, technological revolutions, and cultural shifts—all before the age of 25. They’re connected, informed, and passionate. But there’s one experience that can’t be downloaded, scrolled through, or simulated: living and learning in another country.
Your Ultimate Study Abroad Checklist: How to Choose, Apply, and Fund Your Global Experience
Planning a study abroad experience can feel overwhelming. From picking the perfect location to figuring out how to pay for it, there’s a lot to consider. That’s why we’ve created this go-to checklist to help you break it down step by step and feel confident about your journey.
Practical Tips for Gaining Leadership Skills Abroad
In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, leadership is more than a title—it's a mindset. One of the most powerful and transformative ways to develop leadership skills is through international experiences. While you’re studying abroad, stepping outside your comfort zone is a proven path to becoming a stronger, more adaptive leader. It is vital to lead with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and confidence. Here’s how you can intentionally grow your leadership skills while abroad:
How Studying Abroad Changes the Way You See the World
Studying abroad is an eye-opening experience that fundamentally shifts how you see the world. Living in a new country challenges your perspectives, forces you to adapt, and allows you to grow in ways you never expected. Here’s how studying abroad changes your worldview: