Photo credit: Evelyn Case
2025 Fall Photo Contest Winner
Photo credit: Suthida Thao
2025 Fall Photo Contest Submission
International Trivia
Thursday, March 12
5-7 pm
International Community Center, 130 Pyle Center
Photo credit: Ben Degen
2025 Fall Photo Contest Submission
Student Stories from Abroad
We know study abroad is life-changing, but don’t just take our word for it!
Read first-hand accounts of what students experience on our study abroad and internship programs around the world. From navigating new cultures to applying classroom skills in real‑world settings, their stories offer honest insights, tips, and “I wish I’d known…” moments that can guide your own journey.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in these posts do not necessarily represent the views of the UW-Madison’s International Academic Programs Office, the International Division, or UW-Madison more generally.
Want even more content?
Visit the “Student Voices” tab at the bottom of every program webpage for more insights from students – including videos, quotes, and photo albums!
Meet Our Bloggers
Read stories from our students in different study abroad programs.
Study Abroad Scholars
Get an inside scoop from students on programs and internships around the world!
Global Gateway
Discover stories from students in the UW Global Gateway Initiative.
Global Launch
Follow first-year students who are studying in London their entire freshman year!
Search for Student Stories
Browse student stories by category.
Browse by experience type
Browse by location
Browse by duration
Browse by major or certificate
Read experiences abroad from students in your major or certificate!
Check out our Major Advising Pages for additional guidance on studying or interning abroad as a student in your degree.
All majors are self-reported by the student at the time that their post is submitted.
Browse by personal identities
You’re bringing more than just your luggage with you while studying abroad. The aspects of your identity—all that makes you who you are—come along too!
- Actively Serving or Student Veteran
- Adult Student
- First Generation College Student
- Heritage Seeker Student
- International Student
- LGBTQ+
- Student with Disability
- Transfer Student
- Female
- Male
- Non-binary / third gender
- Race and Ethnicity Abroad:
All identities are self-reported by the student at the time that their post is submitted.
Featured Stories
How the Challenges of Study Abroad Lead to Growth and Strength
Hannah K. shares how the occasional discomfort of studying abroad can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth.
Agroecology Abroad: Q&A with Taigan Anderson
With five study abroad programs complete, Taigan Anderson is making the most of her first two years at UW-Madison.
From Madison to Medellín
UW-Madison Global Health Institute Summer Interns, Justin and Kendall, share about their experience at the One Health Center in Medellin, Colombia.
Badgers Abroad
Explore student experiences featured by UW-Madison departments or our program partners!
Want to Connect with a Study Abroad Student?
If you’re curious to know what a study abroad program is like, one of your best resources is connecting with a former program participant. Returned students may be able to provide you with tips in navigating the academics, share local insider knowledge, and even help with those pre-departure questions, like what to pack!
You can also follow our Instagram account for weekly takeovers by students who are currently on one of our programs! This is a great way to see photos, videos, and even have your questions answered.