The Transformative Power of Travel for Overseas Students

What is it about?

This study explores how travelling and studying abroad can deeply change students, not just academically, but personally and emotionally. By combining surveys and interviews with students who studied overseas, we found that travel experiences often have a bigger impact on students’ growth than classroom learning alone. Key findings include: - Frequent travel and reflection matter: Students who traveled more often and took time to reflect on their experiences reported stronger personal transformation. - Transformation goes beyond learning: Travel helped students see themselves and the world differently, boosting confidence, independence, and openness to new ideas. - Not all travel experiences are the same: Factors like who students traveled with or how long they stayed abroad didn’t significantly affect their transformation, showing that the personal experience and engagement are what really count. Overall, this research highlights that travel can be a powerful tool for learning and personal growth, helping students develop skills, perspectives, and self-awareness that last long after they return home.

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Why is it important?

This research explores how experiences beyond the classroom—particularly travel and reflection—can drive deep personal transformation in students studying abroad. Our findings show that frequent travel and mindful reflection often have a greater impact on personal growth than academic learning alone, fostering independence, confidence, and new perspectives. By highlighting the mechanisms that make travel transformative, this study offers practical insights for educators and program designers aiming to create meaningful, growth-oriented experiences. It underscores the potential of travel not just as a leisure activity, but as a powerful tool for developing skills, self-awareness, and life-changing insights.

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