The first step in studying abroad is determining where you’ll go, and it might be one of the most difficult to make. You want a destination that will provide you with an enriching cultural experience, allow you to take the course work you’re looking for, offer some unique classes you can’t take in your home university, and meet a variety of other needs.
If you identify as LGBTQIA+, you are also looking for a host city that will be accepting and offers additional resources that make you feel welcome in your new hometown.
Studying abroad with University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) offers the perfect chance to gain independence and take charge of creating the right experience for you. Here are five tips to find the perfect LGBTQIA+ friendly location — so you can feel comfortable, proud, and accepted during every step of your study abroad journey.
#1: Speak with your Program Advisor
After you apply, USAC Program Advisors are available to answer any questions you have, whether LGBTQIA+-related or anything else. They work day in and day out with every student who studies abroad, and they know the program locations better than anyone else. They can answer any questions you might have about the culture, such as how LGBTQIA+ accepting the city is or what on-site resources will be available overseas.
#2. Check out the ILGA sexual orientation laws in the world map
Every year the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) routinely updates maps that show the sexual orientation laws of each country as policies change. There are five different maps, each highlighting different issues around the globe:
- Criminalization of consensual same-sex sexual acts
- Legal gender recognition
- Restrictions on interventions on intersex minors
- Regulation of so-called “conversion therapies”
- Legal recognition of same-sex couples (marriage equality and civil unions)
While the world and some countries are becoming more accepting of LGBTQIA+ individuals, some countries will stand out above others for offering “pro laws”, resources for students, and highly accepting social views.
Remember that laws do not always correlate to the social norm, so it can be helpful to research how accepting locals are of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s widely accepted. With that in mind…
#3. Be aware of cultural differences beyond the laws
Doing research ahead of time on the program’s LGBTQIA+ culture can help you determine how willing and comfortable you are to adapt to that country’s mindset and norms about sexuality and gender.
One of the biggest draws of study abroad is the opportunity to learn and immerse yourself in a new culture. Learning and accepting the cultural sensitivities of your host country is critical to a successful study abroad experience. While you can choose to study abroad anywhere, know that not every country has the same stance towards sexuality and gender, and therefore, not every city will be equally safe, welcoming, and friendly. Take a moment of self-reflection about your identity to prepare for the international traveler’s mindset. Doing your research can help you find the right location for you.
#4. Speak with alumni
There’s no better way to learn about a country than from someone who has been before. See if any LGBTQIA+ students on your campus have studied abroad, and ask themabout their experience — their challenges, successes, and everything in between. Search on social media for stories from LGBTQIA+ students abroad. USAC can also connect you with alumni to speak with— just ask your Program Advisor.
#5. Research on-site organizations and support
From nonprofit organizations to on-campus clubs, advocacy groups, and youth organizations, you can start building your LGBTQIA+ abroad community before you even head overseas.
Check out these resources as you plan:
- BeGlobalii by Diversity Abroad
- NAFSA Rainbow Special Interest Group: Rainbow Sig
USAC is dedicated to providing LGBTQIA+ students with the resources, tools, and support they need to have a safe and impactful study abroad. Speak to your Program Advisor about any concerns or questions you have, and if you’re an LGBTQIA+ alumni who would like to help us provide more resources to students, we’d love to hear from you! You can reach out to us at alumni@usac.edu.
