Studying Abroad: Opportunity and Challenge
Students studying abroad are likely to encounter many new and different things, from food, to language, to the way different cultures view fundamental issues like inequality and diversity. When learning while immersed in another culture, students can see nationality, race, ethnicity, social class, gender, sexuality, ability, and religion through a different lens.
These new experiences and ideas may be exciting, and at times they may be uncomfortable. Each, however, is an opportunity to gain new perspectives on oneself, on one鈥檚 home culture, and on one鈥檚 own place in the world.听
Perceptions of You While Abroad
Students often wonder how they will be perceived in their host culture. For many this is an important question because a host culture鈥檚 perspectives on diverse identities may affect a student鈥檚 experience abroad.
Sometimes, a student may be perceived in ways that are emotionally and personally challenging. That does not mean, however, that the student should not study abroad. Instead, students should be informed, consider the cultural context of a host country in advance, and be prepared to step outside their comfort zone safely and knowledgeably.
Preparing for an Experience Abroad
Below are some resources to help students prepare for and navigate diverse experiences while learning abroad. Off-Campus Study advisers and peers鈥攕tudents from the host country and students who have studied abroad鈥攁re also great resources to consult.
- (see specific resources for African American, Asian/Pacific Islander American, Hispanic American, and Native American students)
- "Glimpse" Race Abroad Acclimation Guide
- Race and Ethnicity Abroad
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