Mercer University professors Dr. Chinekwu Obidoa and Dr. Eimad Houry have published a new book that examines the impact of study abroad experiences on students. The book, titled How Studying Abroad Changed My Life: Tips and Strategies for a Transformative Experience, was released by Mercer University Press in March 2025.
The publication brings together essays from Mercer alumni and faculty, sharing personal accounts of studying abroad and offering practical guidance for planning meaningful international experiences. According to Dr. Obidoa, “During trips abroad, professors try to focus your learning on specific course goals; meanwhile, there are a lot of other things you end up encountering. How do you leverage the incredible, multifaceted experience for something tangible and useful in your life? How do we move from basic learning to deep transformation?” She added, “This book presents tips and strategies that students can engage with before, during and after studying abroad so that their sacred experience is not wasted. It is about helping young people leverage the impact of their study abroad experience for transformation.”
Dr. Houry has significant experience both as an international student himself and as an academic leader at Mercer who expanded opportunities for others through the creation of the international affairs program and by leading nearly thirty programs in regions including the Middle East, Africa, and East Asia.
Dr. Obidoa has also led multiple study abroad programs at Mercer to destinations such as Bermuda, Morocco, and Portugal. Through collecting testimonials from former students, she observed that many gained a broader perspective on global issues and developed greater acceptance toward others following their time abroad.
The book identifies five key areas where study abroad impacts students: self-understanding and purpose; development of new skills; broader worldviews; increased capacity for reflection; and positive changes in behavior.
Emily Dunn, assistant director of global education at Mercer said: “Throughout these stories you will hear students reflect on their valuable experiences abroad.”
Emphasizing the educational value of storytelling within the book’s context, Dr. Obidoa stated: “We’re always connected to stories from people we don’t even know, and sometimes these stories move, change and inspire us,” she said. “But it’s one thing to showcase stories. It’s another to write stories that are used for teaching. This book is also a pedagogical resource that teachers and universities can use to prepare students to travel abroad.”
Dr. Obidoa noted an increase in institutional support over her twelve years at Mercer: “When I first came to Mercer 12 years ago, there was hardly any funding or support for students seeking to study abroad. Students mostly had to pay out of pocket or find a scholarship. But Mercer has really done a 180 when it comes to supporting students to study abroad,” she said. “Not only have they continued to emphasize it, but the options have multiplied. With more offerings, there’s a message being sent to students that this is an important aspect of their education.”
Mercer has received national recognition as both a Gilman Top Producing Institution and Gilman Greatest Growth Institution for increasing access among its student population.
Support from the Office of Global Engagement contributed directly to this project’s completion as well as ongoing efforts like Study Abroad Week scheduled September 15-18.
Reflecting on the long-term effects described in these essays across countries such as South Africa, Tanzania, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates Dr. Houry said: “This book serves as a testament to the profound and enduring personal and professional impact that study abroad experiences have had, and continue to have… We sincerely hope that this book will inspire both students and faculty to continue advocating for studying abroad as an exceptionally valuable avenue for academic and personal growth.”
Felix Jelen added: “Mercer University expects real and tangible value for our students from their study abroad experiences… Student experiences abroad inform their worldview… This volume is a testament to the Mercer approach — one which distinguishes our educational experience.”
Dr. Craig McMahan commented: “these inspiring stories will surely fuel the launch of many new international learning initiatives.”
How Studying Abroad Changed My Life is available through Mercer University Press’ website or most online booksellers.
