Student Spotlight: Adriana Sneed in France
“One challenge I have encountered is communicating properly within the language. I have had issues at grocery stores where I struggled to explain an issue. I am navigating it by using translate to figure out a word then still talking to them. This is helping me consistently learn new phrases and words everyday. I practice and write down these phrases so I can return to them later. This has made connecting with locals a little harder, but I remain committed to making these connections.”
Student Spotlight: Dana Deloney in Germany
“Upon settling in, I have been challenged by not knowing the language of the country I am studying in. Now, most people in Germany actually do know English, but there are a plethora of things that are NOT in English: every grocery store item, signs, train station names, and a lot more. Unfortunately, Google Translate is not always helpful.”
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.
Student Spotlight: Brooklyn Washington in Ghana
“During my internship in Ghana, a challenge I encountered was overcoming my fear of asking questions to the hospital's doctors and staff. I addressed this by preparing thoughtful questions in advance, which helped me become more confident in my interactions. It also helped me gain deeper insights on the healthcare systems and procedures.”
Student Spotlight: Zaria Samuel in Colombia
“One challenge I’ve encountered so far is adjusting to the language and giving myself grace as I continue to learn Spanish. All of my classes, most of my friends, and my roommates speak only Spanish, which is both an incredible gift and an exciting stretch for me. While it can be mentally exhausting at times to understand and express myself fully, I’m embracing it as part of the journey.”
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.