Three UC students discover how study abroad transforms identity in unexpected ways. Their stories reveal that studying abroad doesn’t require choosing between who you are and who you might become—instead, it creates space for both authentic identity and personal growth.

Before studying abroad in Rome, Monique Evdokiou (UC Berkeley) felt fully prepared, but quickly found herself stuck in a limiting routine. By resetting her expectations, exploring on her own, and embracing curiosity, she broke out of my comfort zone and immersed in the culture. The mindset shift made her semester unforgettable, teaching her resilience, independence, and the joy of living intentionally.