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:
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:
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.
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:
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.
Black Women in Travel Who Inspire Us
Happy Women’s History Month! Black women in the travel industry continue to break barriers, share authentic stories, and create spaces where representation thrives. Today, we spotlight three extraordinary women whose work is reshaping travel for the better: Jessica Nabongo, Kellee Edwards, and Martinique Lewis.
Joy Worldwide Inc. Photo Contest Winners
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.
Joy Worldwide Inc. Photo Contest Finalists
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:
How Study Abroad Cultivates Better Lifestyles
Studying abroad is often seen as a time of adventure, academic growth, and cultural exploration. But beyond the excitement of new experiences, living in a foreign country can have a profound impact on a student’s overall lifestyle. From healthier eating habits to a more active daily routine, studying abroad offers unique opportunities to embrace wellness in ways that might not be as accessible at home. Here’s how study abroad cultivates better lifestyles for students around the globe.
Establishing a Routine Abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for personal and academic growth. However, amidst all the excitement, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the many changes and an unfamiliar environment. One of the most effective ways to navigate this new chapter smoothly is by establishing a routine. A good routine abroad can help maintain balance, reduce stress, and enhance your overall experience. Here’s how you can create one that works for you.
How Studying Abroad Builds Confidence and Independence
Living and learning in a different country isn't just about academic growth; it’s a journey of self-reliance, problem-solving, and leadership. The anticipation of navigating an entirely new country, culture, and language can overwhelm anyone.
Embracing Culture: Ways to Experience Authenticity While Traveling
Traveling is not just about visiting new places; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. Experiencing culture while traveling enriches your journey and broadens your perspective. Here are some effective ways to dive deep into the cultural fabric of your destination:
How to develop yourself through travel
Traveling can be a powerful tool for personal development, offering a myriad of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Here are some ways in which you can harness the transformative potential of travel to enhance your personal development:
Meet our Board: Jacqueline Donnelly
Meet Jacqueline Donnelly! She serves on the Board of Joy Worldwide Inc. as the Treasurer. She is a retired Enterprise Applications Architect and current digital nomad and content creator.
How travel impacts young people
Travel can have a profound impact on young people by exposing them to new cultures, perspectives, and experiences. It can broaden their horizons, increase their cultural awareness, and foster a sense of empathy and understanding towards others. In this article, we will expand on how travel impacts young people.
Welcoming Countries for African American Travelers
For African American travelers, it is essential to consider destinations that are safe and welcoming, where they can feel comfortable and respected. In this blog post, we will highlight some countries known for their hospitality and inclusivity towards African American travelers.