A foreign experience can have a transformational impact on individuals and the societies in which they live. During a student exchange in Sweden, I gained a greater understanding of multiculturalism, learned about the values of multilingualism, and realized the importance of global citizenship. Living in a country is far different from visiting a country. A complete immersion means learning how to live in a different society, which creates empathy for people that few other experiences can match. Over time I began to reflect this understanding in my thoughts and actions while abroad and at home. A 2006 Canada World Youth impact assessment study found that my experience was not unique. Past participants felt the program's greatest influence was on their values and attitudes, knowledge/learning, and skills. The more young minds are able to experience foreign places, people, and cultures, the more globally informed their future decisions will be. (Contains 6 endnotes.)