This qualitative study was conducted to assess focus group data to generate information on the applicability of a social media video designed and developed for sensation seeker study abroad students preparing to travel using the Sensation Seeking Model and Extended Parallel Process Model. This study sought to determine potential adaptations to Instagram video storyboards that address the perceived severity and perceived susceptibility of travelers diarrhea and the perceived efficacy of three proposed solutions for preventing travelers diarrhea. With the rise of U.S. students studying abroad and with an increase in diversification of country study abroad programs, students are at an increased risk for travelers diarrhea. Food and water safety messaging may help prevent travelers diarrhea. However, limited research exists on travelers diarrhea and the students perspective on the health risks and prevention behaviors while studying abroad. This study involved conducting four focus groups with pre and post study abroad university students. It investigated persuasive message design strategies to influence study abroad students. Participants sensation seeking traits, perceptions of travelers diarrhea and perceptions of recommended responses to prevent travelers diarrhea were assessed. Findings revealed the majority of the participants were high sensation seekers. Literature shows that study abroad students score higher than college students on desires for unusual sensations or experiences (Schroth & McCormack, 2000). The discussions revealed that participants perceived severity and susceptibility were serious and high. However, their perceived severity were dependent on personal choices made when abroad. Participants believed two solutions were effective at preventing travelers diarrhea and felt confident in performing two solutions. The participants underscored the need for changes to the storyboards to achieve an effective design and targeted message that ultimately changes attitudes, behavioral intentions, and behavior of students. Recommendations for changes included areas such as personal experience, additional information and statistics, audio and captions, images, style, length, and trust. Designed and developed messaging for sensation seekers using the Sensation Seeking Model and Extended Parallel Process Model, via Instagram, holds promise as an effective communication strategy for reaching and influencing study abroad students to take food and water precautions for preventing travelers diarrhea.