Negotiating Identity

Each of us has a complex set of factors, interests, and backgrounds that make up our personal identities. Going abroad, or even to another city in the US, and immersing yourself in another culture may challenge aspects of your identity and possibly change the way you view yourself. Something that marks you out as different at home may not be a big deal in your host community, while another aspect of your identity that you had hardly noticed before becomes the first thing that people ask you about. The more you know about the culture of your off-campus site before you get there, the more prepared you will be to face challenges to your identity.

It is important to be aware that you may face some unwanted attention or prejudice during your time off-campus due to cultural differences and norms. You may get stared at because of the color of your skin or hair, or get unwanted comments on the way that you dress. Knowing how to address these challenges, and having a support network in place to help you if and when they occur, is essential. This network should include not only family and friends back home, but also on-site support such as the local program coordinator or international student advisor and other program participants.

Students from underrepresented groups may find themselves better prepared to deal with the identity challenges associated with off-campus study due to prior experience being part of a minority.

Racial & Ethnic Minority Students

Depending on where you study abroad, your appearance may immediately distinguish you as a foreigner or it may help you blend in. However, as soon as you open your mouth, most people will realize that you're an American. This can lead to an interesting clash of identities: your own self-perception vs. local expectations of what it means to be "American". Being a minority abroad can also sometimes lead to annoying, uncomfortable, or even offensive questions and assumptions. Here are some useful websites to help you prepare for these situations.

All Abroad: Resources and Advice for African American, Asian/Pacific Islander American, Hispanic/Latin@ American, and Native American students

Diversity Abroad: Why You Should Study Abroad, Racial & Ethnic Minority Students Abroad, Heritage Seekers, and Student Stories

Project for Learning Abroad, Training, and Outreach (PLATO): Resources to Support Underrepresented Students

University of Pittsburgh's Access International Education: Resources on Underrepresented Groups in International Education 

LGBTQ Students

Legal and social attitudes towards sexuality and gender vary considerably across cultures. Do your research while applying and preparing for off-campus study so that you know what to expect and how to stay safe and avoid persecution.

Diversity Abroad: Sexual Orientation Abroad

International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC): Information by Country

International Lesbian and Gay Association: State Homophobia Map

Michigan State University: Study Abroad for GLBT Students

NAFSA Rainbow Special Interest Group: U.S. Students Abroad 

U.S. Department of State: Students Abroad For LGBT Travelers  

Female Students

You may face different attitudes towards women and gender roles during your studies and travels abroad. Research the gender-related cultural norms of your host country before you go and if possible, talk to female students or professors who have been there before. To avoid unwanted attention, you may want to observe and imitate the appearance and behavior of local women. However, you should never feel pressured to adapt and adjust to the extent that you feel unsafe.

Canadian Government: Her Own Way - A Woman's Safe-Travel Guide 

Diversity Abroad: Women Abroad

Journeywoman: The Premier Travel Resource for Women

U.S. Department of State: For Women Travelers 

Religious Identity and Belief Systems

Accommodating Disabilities

When choosing an off-campus study program, it is important to remember that attitudes, accessibility, and accommodations for people with disabilities vary from country to country. Be sure to research your host culture to learn about common perceptions of your disability and what, if any, support it typically available. Additional accommodations can often be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your program coordinator or host university, but it is important to disclose your needs early. Also, if you are going to a country where English is not an official language, make sure that you have the necessary language skills to talk about your disability. If you have a learning disability and receive accommodation at UWF, contact the SDRC for advice on explaining your needs and getting similar support while studying abroad.

Diversity Abroad: Students with Disabilities Abroad

Mobility International USA (MIUSA): Going Abroad: A Guide for Americans with Disabilities and Stories & Blogs 

US Department of State: Travelers with Disabilities

Financing Off-Campus Study

Studying abroad can be expensive. You'll have to pay for round trip airfare and may face higher costs of living in your host city. Depending on where you go, you may also encounter a different challenge - being expected to fit the stereotype of the wealthy American visitor and keep up with the lifestyle of more affluent peers. Being social and exploring your new environment while trying not to go broke can be a tough balancing act. Check out the following links for help in making it work.

The Study Abroad Finances page has general tips on making off-campus study affordable for you. The Scholarships page provides links to scholarships for study abroad students.

Diversity Abroad has tips on how economically disadvantaged students can make study abroad financially feasible.