Studying abroad is an experience that shapes not only academic knowledge but also personal growth, global perspectives, and career trajectories. Many of today’s most successful and well-known figures once walked the halls of international universities, gaining exposure to diverse cultures and ideas. Here’s a look at some famous personalities you may not know studied abroad proving that international education can be a steppingstone to greatness.
1. Elon Musk – University of Pennsylvania, USA 🇺🇸
The tech visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, Elon Musk, is one of the most famous entrepreneurs in the world. Born in South Africa, Musk pursued higher education abroad. He first studied at Queen’s University in Canada before transferring to the University of Pennsylvania in the USA. There, he earned degrees in Physics and Economics, laying the foundation for his future ventures. His international education exposed him to new ideas and networks, which played a key role in shaping his entrepreneurial mindset.
2. Emma Watson – University of Oxford, UK 🇬🇧
Known globally for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, Emma Watson is not only a talented actress but also a strong advocate for gender equality. She studied English literature at Brown University in the USA but also participated in a study-abroad program at the University of Oxford. Her time at Oxford gave her a deeper appreciation for literature and contributed to her well-rounded education. Despite her fame, she remained committed to her academic goals, proving that education and celebrity success can go hand in hand.
3. Sundar Pichai – Stanford University, USA 🇺🇸
The CEO of Google and Alphabet, Sundar Pichai, was born and raised in India but pursued his postgraduate studies abroad. After completing his degree in Metallurgical Engineering at IIT Kharagpur, he went on to earn an M.S. in Material Science and Engineering at Stanford University. His education abroad gave him exposure to Silicon Valley’s tech ecosystem, which eventually led to his remarkable career at Google. Today, he is one of the most influential figures in the technology industry.
4. Malala Yousafzai – University of Oxford, UK 🇬🇧
Nobel Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai is a symbol of courage and advocacy for girls’ education. After surviving a Taliban assassination attempt, she continued her education and activism. Malala studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at the University of Oxford, one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. Her time at Oxford further strengthened her voice and global influence, inspiring millions with her dedication to educational equality.
5. Barack Obama – Occidental College, USA 🇺🇸 and University of Cambridge, UK 🇬🇧
Former US President Barack Obama also has international academic roots. Before becoming a household name, he studied at Occidental College in Los Angeles, where he spent two years. During this time, he took part in a study-abroad program at the University of Cambridge in the UK. This experience exposed him to diverse cultures and political perspectives, influencing his worldview. His international education played a role in shaping his diplomatic and inclusive leadership style.
6. J.K. Rowling – University of Exeter, UK 🇬🇧 and University of Paris, France 🇫🇷
The beloved author of the Harry Potter series, J.K. Rowling, studied French and Classics at the University of Exeter in the UK. As part of her degree, she also participated in a study-abroad program at the University of Paris in France. Her time abroad broadened her language skills and cultural knowledge, which later influenced the magical and multicultural world of Hogwarts. Her journey highlights how studying abroad can fuel creativity and inspire storytelling.
7. Natalie Portman – Harvard University, USA 🇺🇸 and Hebrew University, Israel 🇮🇱
Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman is known for her incredible performances, but she also values education. She studied psychology at Harvard University in the USA. During her time at Harvard, she took part in a study-abroad program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. Her experience abroad allowed her to explore her Israeli heritage and cultural roots, adding to her global perspective.
8. Kofi Annan – Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Switzerland 🇨🇭
Kofi Annan, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was another advocate of global education. Originally from Ghana, he studied abroad at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland. His international education played a significant role in shaping his diplomatic career and leadership in global peace initiatives.
9. Lupita Nyong’o – Yale School of Drama, USA 🇺🇸
Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, born in Mexico and raised in Kenya, pursued her passion for acting by studying abroad. She earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting from the Yale School of Drama in the USA. Her international education gave her access to top-tier acting training and networks, which propelled her Hollywood career.
10. Ban Ki-moon – Harvard University, USA 🇺🇸
Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, is another notable figure who studied abroad. He earned a master’s in public administration from Harvard University in the USA. His education abroad gave him insights into global policies and governance, which later influenced his leadership during his tenure at the UN.
Studying abroad opens doors to endless possibilities, just as it did for these remarkable individuals. As an overseas education consultancy, we help students choose the right university, navigate the application process, and provide support with visas, scholarships, and accommodation. Let us help you take the first step towards an international education that could shape your future.