Beyond the Classroom: Why Solo Travel Can Be More Rewarding Than Studying Abroad
As college students navigate demanding schedules and financial constraints, the dream of international travel often feels out of reach. While study abroad programs and group trips are popular options, a compelling alternative – solo travel – offers unique benefits and transformative experiences.
The conventional wisdom for 20-somethings often centers around studying abroad or traveling with friends. However, Loyola University student and Editor-in-Chief of The Phoenix, Lilli Malone, discovered that prioritizing commitments and navigating limited funds didn’t preclude international exploration. “No. Not studying abroad doesn’t mean you can’t still travel,” she asserts.
Malone initially faced a difficult choice: dedicate her time to The Phoenix, the university’s student newspaper, or pursue her aspirations of living in Rome with her peers. Ultimately, she chose the former, a decision she doesn’t regret. This experience led her to champion the often-overlooked potential of solo travel.
The Allure of Independent Exploration
Solo travel, while potentially expensive, can be remarkably accessible with careful planning. A well-considered budget, a reliable backpack, and a flexible mindset are key. Malone herself embarked on three solo adventures in 2025: a winter break trip through Spain, a spring break excursion to Italy, and a recent return from Ireland.
These journeys weren’t just about seeing new places; they were about personal growth and connection. Each trip resulted in a network of friends from around the globe, a wealth of lasting memories, and a broadened perspective on the world. Malone emphasizes that solo travel can be surprisingly social, fostering connections that might not occur in a group setting.
Finding Freedom and Perspective
The benefits of traveling alone extend beyond the purely experiential. Malone suggests that a solo trip can be a powerful antidote to feelings of being trapped by the pressures of American politics, academic obligations, or anxieties about the future. “If you ever feel trapped by American politics, schoolwork, obligations or the dread of what’s to come after graduation, consider a trip alone,” she advises. “I can almost guarantee you it’ll be one of the least lonely experiences you ever have.”
This sentiment speaks to the core of solo travel’s appeal: the opportunity for self-discovery and a break from the familiar. It’s a chance to challenge preconceived notions, embrace the unexpected, and cultivate a sense of independence and resilience.
What’s New at The Phoenix
In the latest edition of The Phoenix, readers can find a diverse range of content, including an opinion piece on “homeless chic,” coverage of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Walk for Warmth, updates on the men’s basketball team, and staff predictions for the Grammy Awards.
Lilli Malone, a senior studying journalism, criminal justice, and political science, has been a dedicated member of The Phoenix since her freshman year. Prior to her role as Editor-in-Chief, she contributed to the news team and local publications like The Daily Herald and Block Club Chicago. When not immersed in journalism, Malone enjoys observing Lake Michigan and the local pigeon population with her roommates from her home in Columbus, Ohio.
