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Identity and Education Abroad

While you are abroad, you may notice that some of the identities you hold become more or less salient than they were at home. 

These changes could potentially have positive or negative impacts while you are abroad. To help prepare you for this, we have listed a few questions to consider before you depart. There are also additional resources below.

Large group photo of students studying abroad in Florence, Italy in front of San Miniato al Monte.
General Things to Consider
General Tips
  • Think about the identities you hold. Which are visible and invisible?
  • How will you want to talk (or not talk) about those parts of your identity?
  • How will you respond to unexpected questions or attention?
  • What will it mean to travel to where you are going with the identities you hold?
  • How will your identities be perceived in your host culture?
  • How might your values be impacted by this new reality or perception?
  • Research the political, cultural, and historical context of the country where you will be studying.
  • Research other student experiences in your host country.
  • Depending on your program, you may be able to look into identity-based student organizations at the host university where you could meet with other students, ask questions, and have open discussions.
  • Stay connected with on-site program directors and counselors, if available.
  • Don't hesitate to reach out to us for support.

Considerations and Resources

Adult Students Studying Abroad

Education abroad can enhance your studies and open new job opportunities. You may need to balance family, work, and personal obligations with your academic experiences, but there are many international opportunities that can fit into your schedule and align with your academic interests. With research and planning, it is possible to manage your responsibilities at home while participating in education abroad.

Things to Consider

  • How will the program duration affect my job, finances, and familial obligations?
  • Will I have to make up for lost income while away? Will I be able to work while abroad?
  • How can I connect to my peers abroad?
  • Are there visa/insurance/other legal conditions that change based on age or familial duties?

Resources

First Generation College Students Studying Abroad

As a first generation college student, you may be the first in your family to study abroad or even travel internationally. There are various resources on campus that can help you prepare for and fund your experience abroad. Utilize your support system and communicate your concerns to help alleviate worries at home and abroad. 

Things to Consider

  • What support systems do I have at home? How can I access them abroad?
  • What financial aid exists that can help me fund my education abroad?
  • What can I do to relieve concerns about traveling?
  • What resources are available to me abroad?

Resources

International Students Studying Abroad

International students at Kent State interested in participating in education abroad may have additional considerations. It is important that you meet with International Student and Scholar Services to discuss maintaining your immigration status while studying abroad.

Things to Consider

  • Will I continue to make normal academic progress while studying abroad?
  • Do I have to apply to a certain/additional visa in order to study in my host country?
  • What study away options do I have that work with my visa requirements?
  • Will studying abroad affect my eligibility for practical training?

Resources

LGBTQ+ Students Studying Abroad

LGBTQ+ people are around the world, but laws and cultural views surrounding gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation vary from place to place. LGBTQ+ students should consider things such as cultural differences, discrimination, and safety while researching various program destinations. 

Things to Consider

  • How "out" do I want to be during my program?
  • Are there resources for LGBTQ+ students in my host country or at my place of study?
  • Are sexual orientation and gender identity openly discussed and accepted, or more taboo in my host country?
  • Are there safety and legal issues for LGBTQ+ individuals in this area?
  • Am I able to request a single room, private bathroom, or roommate if I need to?
  • If needed, will I have access to any medications, supplies or services while abroad? Are they available in my host country? If not, will I need any additional documentation to travel with my medication or supplies?

Resources

Military-Connected Students Studying Abroad

Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to learn critical language skills, gain leadership skills, and increase your international understanding. Your tuition benefits may be able to help you fund your abroad experience. Stay organized and work with your officers, advisors, and education abroad staff to find the best program for you.

Things to Consider

  • How do local people perceive the US military and my time in the service?
  • How long am I able to be away? 
  • Will I list my military service on my visa application? If so, how?
  • Can I use my VA benefits, ROTC scholarship, or other military aid to study abroad? 
    • If you receive Post 9/11 GI Bill funds, you may be able to use that money to help pay for your education abroad program. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has created a  might cover. Please contact cavs@kent.edu if you have any questions.

Resources:

Student Athletes Studying Abroad

Studying abroad as a student athlete has many academic, social, and personal benefits that can impact your professional and sporting career. Having open communication with coaches, teammates, and advisors will help you find the right program for you and your needs.

Things to Consider

  • When is my sport not in season? 
  • How long can you be away?
  • What type of program best suits the needs of my academics and the schedule of my athletic season?
  • Will I be able to stay active while abroad?
  • What are the physical safety concerns of studying abroad?

Resources

Students of Color Studying Abroad

When abroad, your ethnicity might have a different perception than it does in the U.S. Your host country may have different racial or ethnic majorities, and people can be either polite or very intrusive when asking about your identity. Before you go, we recommend researching other student experiences or resources surrounding your racial or ethnic identities and how they could impact your time abroad.

Things to Consider

  • Will I be the only person of color on my program? If so, how does that make me feel?
  • What is the racial climate of my host country? Will I face discrimination?
  • How do I feel about being a spokesperson for my identity abroad?
  • Are there hair or skin products I use at home that may not be available abroad?

Resources

Students with Visible and Invisible Disabilities Studying Abroad

Whether your disability is visible or invisible, Education Abroad is committed to making educational experiences abroad possible for you. Early disclosure of personal needs and an open mind to different programs, locations, and services can help you identify the best opportunities abroad. 

Things to Consider

  • What types of physical, academic, and mental health resources and accommodations are available in my host country?
  • Are my medications controlled or banned abroad? Are there regulations on traveling with my medications, service animal, etc.?
  • How does my host country view my disability?
  • Are there prescriptions that I need to fill before I leave? What medications are available abroad?

Resources

Your Journey is Just Beginning

Before You Go While You're Away After Study Abroad
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