Selection and socialization effects of studying abroad.

Objectives: Studying abroad is often considered a life-changing experience. However, research on studying abroad has not always disentangled selection from socialization effects, leading to uncertainty about the actual impact of this experience. In this 4-wave longitudinal study, we examined both selection and socialization effects of a 4-week intensive study abroad program on 17 psychosocial variables related to motivation, academic achievement, well-being, and self-reflection.