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<p>A first-generation student discovers how embracing uncertainty led to an unexpected adventure in Dublin. What started as a semester abroad transformed into lasting friendships for Valerie Cruz (UC Irvine), turned into surfing the Atlantic Ocean, exploring new academic life, and a future she never imagined – returning to University College Dublin for graduate school.</p>

<p>by Ava Williams (UC Irvine), studied abroad in Florence, Italy As an out-of-state student financing my own travel, planning affordable weekend trips while studying abroad, and staying on budget seemed daunting. And here&#8217;s the twist: I visited 7 countries over 11 weeks, and not a single reservation was made before I arrived in Florence. Sound [&#8230;]</p>

<p>When FOMO struck during her semester abroad, Kylee Cochram (UC Irvine) found herself missing everything from friends to familiar routines. Through trial and error, she discovered practical strategies for managing homesickness while studying in Europe. From creating a cozy living space to setting healthy social media boundaries, Kylee shares honest advice for staying present during your international experience, complemented by guidance from UCEAP advisors.</p>

<p>As an out-of-state college student financing her own travel, Ava Williams (UC Irvine) managed to visit 7 countries on a college budget. After learning every trick, tip and hack, she shares this: budget travel isn't about sacrifice. Instead, it's about strategy. See the six tips that made her dream of traveling while studying abroad on a college budget possible, so you can too!</p>

<p>UC students choose to study abroad for many reasons. From building a Mexican identity in México to finding unexpected joy in Ireland's quiet moments, five UC students share how study abroad transformed their lives in surprising ways. Their stories challenge common assumptions about the "right way" to study abroad or even attend college.</p>

<p>From stolen phones in Madrid to sleepless nights in Florence, three UC students reveal that studying abroad isn't always picture-perfect—and that's exactly what makes it transformative. Through honest stories of culture shock, small victories, and unexpected friendships, they share how the challenging moments become the ones that matter most. Whether you're dreaming about study abroad or already navigating life in a new country, discover why the messy, beautiful reality of studying abroad is more valuable than any carefully curated social media feed.</p>

<p>With humor and honesty, a self-described anxious UC Irvine student shares how studying abroad in Paris and London transformed her perspective on mental health and personal growth. From celebrating her 20th birthday under the Eiffel Tower to discovering the healing power of European café culture, Harper Parsley's story proves that sometimes the best therapy is a passport and a leap of faith.</p>

<p>If you're a business major at a UC, where in the world will you get the most benefit from studying abroad? See why Christina Chi (UC Irvine) recommends London and the Business and Entrepreneurship program as the best option.</p>

<p>Too many students - especially first-gen students - stop before they even get started because they assume their budget can't handle study abroad. The good news is there are so many scholarships that await you! Check out (UC Irvine) Qi Jun Chen's roadmap for earning scholarships to study abroad.</p>

<p>As a child, Joshua Swank (UC Irvine) witnessed the naturalization ceremonies for new US citizens and thought, "how do they do it?" Little did he know he was witnessing student diplomacy at work! Study abroad reminded Joshua of the value of student diplomacy.</p>