For most people, traveling abroad means broadening horizons and creating memories. For participants in the The Traveling Youth program, it means much more—developing independence, making smarter decisions, and gaining emotional intelligence.
The program, led by its founder Lucie McGuire, gives students the opportunity to spend a month abroad almost for free, combining cultural immersion with practical education.
She has the data to prove it’s changing lives.
In 2023, Mykel Dorvelia, a 21-year-old college student, joined The Traveling Youth for a month-long trip to Europe. It wasn’t just an adventure; it completely changed his perspective on life.
“It’s a work-life balance, for sure,” Dorvelia said. “In the U.S., everything moves so fast, but there, what matters is taking the time to enjoy the moment.”
Even months later, Dorvelia says the lessons he learned abroad still guide him.
“I’m not rushing things. I’m just taking my time,” he said.
The program isn’t just about sightseeing. Students spend time at local universities studying finance, languages, and culture. Then, educational excursions complement classroom learning, turning lessons into experiences.
“We make sure there’s a lot of education in the program, even when something seems fun,” McGuire said.
Before and after the trip, students take a 30-minute multiple-choice test designed to measure emotional intelligence.
The results show emotional intelligence scores improved by roughly five percent, and students’ stress tolerance increased by more than 11 percent.
“It was amazing to see the growth itself, but also to measure it through a test,” McGuire said. “It showed exactly what we were doing and the impact we were making.”
McGuire says the measurable results could help her secure funding to send even more students abroad.
“When people see the data, they say, ‘Wow, this is really making a difference,’” she said.
For students like Dorvelia, the impact is clear.
“I was surprised by the results afterward. I didn’t think there would be a change,” he said.
The Travelling Youth program is preparing to send seven more students to Europe in May. The program is open to college students or young professionals between 18 and 25 years old who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to study abroad. Most costs, including flights, lodging, and meals, are covered.
Image: Wflx
