How Study Abroad Changed Jamin Ochoa’s Confidence and Career Plans

Have you ever come home from a new experience feeling more confident, then wondered whether that feeling would last? What happens when you return to the same campus, routines, and decisions? In the summer of 2025, I interviewed Texas State student Jamin Ochoa while we were studying abroad in Scotland. He talked about becoming more independent and trying things outside his comfort zone. More than a year later, we caught up to see what had stayed with him. Jamin shares how that experience helped him move from a familiar campus role into student government. It also changed the way he thinks about advertising, the places he might live, and the plans he once felt sure about. We talk about giving a new experience your full attention, the pressure of making your own decisions, and allowing your goals to change. You don’t have to travel overseas to find something unfamiliar. There may be an opportunity close to home. Questions We Explore Can the confidence from studying abroad last after you return home? For Jamin, it did. He describes feeling more independent, more confident in his decisions, and more willing to try unfamiliar experiences after returning from Edinburgh. How can you keep growing after a study abroad experience? Jamin chose a new campus challenge rather than returning to a role where he felt comfortable. Joining student government as chief of staff brought opportunities, friendships, and experiences he hadn’t expected. Can studying abroad change your career plans? Jamin began thinking about where he wanted to live alongside the work he wanted to do. An international advertising class expanded his interests further, and he connects travel with paying closer attention to other people’s experiences. One Idea to Take With You Think of one opportunity you’ve passed over because it feels unfamiliar. What would giving it your full attention look like? Start with one conversation, visit, or application. About the Guest Jamin Ochoa is a Texas State University senior who studied abroad in Scotland in summer 2025. His interests include advertising strategy, research, and insights, and he has served as student government chief of staff. Stories of Change: Helping You Navigate What’s Next Hosted by Judy Oskam Navigating a change or wondering what comes next? Hear real stories from people who have faced unexpected turns, made important choices, and figured things out along the way. A little wisdom to help you find your own way forward. Explore more at StoriesofChangePodcast.com .