The benefit of study abroad lies in its transformative power. International education challenges students to see themselves and the world differently. As they navigate unfamiliar experiences, build connections, and discover new perspectives, they gain a deeper understanding of who they are, what matters to them, and what they're capable of.
Torino, Italy, sits at the foot of the Alps, one of Europe’s most extensive mountain ranges with peaks reaching nearly 16,000 feet. From snow-covered slopes in winter to wildflower-lined trails in summer, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation. As University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) students explore these mountains and experience life abroad, they have opportunities to reach new heights of their own — discovering new perspectives, building confidence, and growing in ways they may not have anticipated.
Scholarships are often the deciding factor in whether a student can pursue their study abroad dreams and experience the lifelong, transformative impact of international education. Starting a scholarship is a meaningful way to keep the spirit of discovery and connection alive while paying it forward, giving another student the opportunity to study abroad.
When Ángela G. decided to study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand, her parents were hesitant. As a Latinx and first-generation student who would be the first in her family to study abroad, she understood their concerns about traveling so far from home. At the same time, she encouraged them to trust the judgment they'd helped her develop growing up and the support she'd receive from USAC while abroad.
In Chiang Mai, Ángela’s confidence grew immensely. From striking up conversations with locals on the bus to sparking new friendships over cards with a deck she brought from home, she learned to trust her intuition, make decisions independently, and approach unfamiliar situations with courage. Ángela’s key takeaway from studying abroad? It’s hard, but that doesn’t mean you can’t navigate it.
During her semester abroad in Stirling, Scotland, USAC alumna Theresa T. got comfortable with the uncomfortable by trying new things, opening her mind to opportunities, and realizing that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes when embracing new experiences.
For Thomas J., studying abroad in Alicante, Spain, was an opportunity to reassess his priorities. As a pre-med student accustomed to a demanding schedule and constant pressure to achieve, he discovered a different approach to life through Spain’s slower pace. His experience taught him that taking care of himself was just as important as pursuing his goals and that finding balance could help him manage stress and avoid burnout.
Allison B. headed to Montevideo, Uruguay, so she could focus on learning Spanish, but she discovered so much more. Learning about Latin American politics and culture helped her better understand her interests and how she wants to use her international relations and pre-law degree in the future.
“You don't know you're interested in something until you experience it.”
Study abroad experiences transform students, and at the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), we see it firsthand every day. While every student's experience is different, living and learning abroad can change how they approach challenges, make decisions, and see the possibilities ahead of them. These lessons stay with students long after they return home.
ELEVATE USAC is a yearlong advocacy and fundraising initiative highlighting the value that study abroad brings to students. Together, we are elevating student stories and expanding access to authentic global education for all.
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