Students who participate in a study abroad experience report it as a life-changing event or an experience that will have long-term effects on both students and faculty. But what exactly does that mean? Is this simply a natural result of such a trip or is it more involved? By looking at the research and informal evaluations of the participants, it would seem a successful and transformative study abroad experience is more by design than default. This article will review the key components which are apparent for a successful and transformative experience. Additionally, it will also provide faculty who are contemplating such a venture some valuable guidelines and perhaps help those faculty who have led previous study abroad groups to improve and enhance their next venture abroad.