Identity Abroad
Aspects of our intersecting identities may be perceived differently abroad. Being cognizant of situations that you may encounter can help you plan for a safe and successful international experience. Please find below some general resources and tips—though we encourage you to reach out to the staff in the Center for International Education for resources specific to your host country.
Resources for students of color:
https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/minority-students-color-abroad
http://www.globaled.us/plato/resources.html
“Race Abroad” glimpse study abroad acclimation guide
Resources for religious students:
https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/religious-diversity-abroad
Students with Disabilities: perceptions and accommodation of disabilities vary by host country. We understand that not all disabilities are visible, and stress the importance of discussing your needs with a staff member in the CIE during pre-departure and while you are abroad so that we may help you advocate for yourself.
Resources for Mobility Abroad:
Mobility International USA Mobility USA is a nonprofit organization that provides resources for individuals abroad.
Go Overseas: Students with Disabilities
https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/how-students-with-disabilities-can-study-abroad
Female, transgender or gender non-conforming travelers:
While all students should remain vigilant throughout their international travels, female and transgender people often have to take extra precautions to remain safe. Emulate local people’s behavior. Try to sit near women on public transportation. If women are not present in a particular place, then that place probably is not safe for women. Ask locals’ advice in dealing with potentially unsafe situations.
LGBTQIA+ Travelers:
Even in the context of your home country, gender roles, gender and sexual expression are complex topics often informed by culture. Your personal identity and sexual health become even more complex in the context of traveling internationally. Students of any sexual orientation should do research on their destination before leaving the U.S. Be aware of the legal restrictions regarding same-sex relationships in other countries, as well as the general attitudes of the population in the country where you plan to travel. Other countries may be more, or less, tolerant of your sexuality and/or gender identity than in the United States.
Resources
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association is a very useful resource for information and support.
US State Department LGBT Travel Information
The National Center for Transgender Equality
Other Tips for Travelers:
Walk confidently and give the impression that you know where you are going and what you are doing.
Avoid dark streets or abandoned alleys.
If you go out by yourself at night, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Only use reputable, recommended taxis. It’s safest to call for a taxi and ask the driver’s name, then confirm their name before getting into the taxi.
Resources for students of color:
https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/minority-students-color-abroad
http://www.globaled.us/plato/resources.html
“Race Abroad” glimpse study abroad acclimation guide
Resources for religious students:
https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/religious-diversity-abroad
Students with Disabilities: perceptions and accommodation of disabilities vary by host country. We understand that not all disabilities are visible, and stress the importance of discussing your needs with a staff member in the CIE during pre-departure and while you are abroad so that we may help you advocate for yourself.
Resources for Mobility Abroad:
Mobility International USA Mobility USA is a nonprofit organization that provides resources for individuals abroad.
Go Overseas: Students with Disabilities
https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/how-students-with-disabilities-can-study-abroad
Female, transgender or gender non-conforming travelers:
While all students should remain vigilant throughout their international travels, female and transgender people often have to take extra precautions to remain safe. Emulate local people’s behavior. Try to sit near women on public transportation. If women are not present in a particular place, then that place probably is not safe for women. Ask locals’ advice in dealing with potentially unsafe situations.
LGBTQIA+ Travelers:
Even in the context of your home country, gender roles, gender and sexual expression are complex topics often informed by culture. Your personal identity and sexual health become even more complex in the context of traveling internationally. Students of any sexual orientation should do research on their destination before leaving the U.S. Be aware of the legal restrictions regarding same-sex relationships in other countries, as well as the general attitudes of the population in the country where you plan to travel. Other countries may be more, or less, tolerant of your sexuality and/or gender identity than in the United States.
Resources
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association is a very useful resource for information and support.
US State Department LGBT Travel Information
The National Center for Transgender Equality
Other Tips for Travelers:
Walk confidently and give the impression that you know where you are going and what you are doing.
Avoid dark streets or abandoned alleys.
If you go out by yourself at night, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Only use reputable, recommended taxis. It’s safest to call for a taxi and ask the driver’s name, then confirm their name before getting into the taxi.