Identity Abroad

Our team is committed to fostering equity and inclusion and providing resources and opportunities for students of diverse identities who wish to study abroad. The information provided below is intended as a starting point for discussion and deliberation. Our advisors are available for individual consultation, questions, and support.

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  • First-Generation Students

    Having blazed a trail by coming to UR, many Spider First students are poised to have a successful global experience as well! First generation spiders and their families may have specific questions or concerns about travel abroad. Our advisors welcome your questions and will partner with you to make sure that you get the answers you need. Below are some points to consider when deciding when and where to study abroad.

    • Use your resources! The Spider Firsts advisors and the Study Abroad team are here to provide support and get your questions answers. Other First Gen spiders who have studied abroad are also great resources.
    • Will this be your first time abroad? If so, think about the type of program, the length of time, and the distance from home. Check out our offerings for semester, summer, and short-term programs, including fully-funded EnCompass offerings. You may also wish to research the countries you are considering using the country specific information here. And don’t worry, we’ll provide plenty of information and support to orient you and help make your travel go as smoothly as possible.
    • How will you involve your family in the decision to study abroad? Early discussion with and input of your family are important, especially if you think they may have questions or concerns. You can also refer them to our For Parents section.
    • Financial concerns. This might be one of the biggest worries for some students in considering study abroad. Our advisors can help you understand how your financial aid can apply to different types of study abroad programs, and can help you identify other possible sources of scholarships that can help!

    Ready to dive in?
    Contact us to schedule an appointment with a study abroad advisor.

  • LGBTQ Students

    If you identify as an LGTBQ student, there are a lot of good resources to help you understand the host country culture and how that may impact you. Below are some questions you may wish to ask and some important resources that can help.

    • What cultural attitudes, laws, or context exist towards sexual orientation in the host country?
    • Is it safe for an LGBTQ person in the host country?
    • What is the social perception of LGBTQ people in the host country?
    • Are there typical gender roles and gender relations that you should be aware of in the host country?
    • Can the program accommodate special housing requests such as single rooms, private baths, or certain roommates?
    • Does the program have any other resources available for LGBTQ students?
    • Is there a LGBTQ community nearby?

    Before you go abroad, you should become familiar with the host country’s laws pertaining to LGBTQ people and their rights. The Association of International Educators provides specific resources for LGBTQ study abroad students. The US Department of State also provides specific information for LGBTQ travelers. Some other good resources are listed below.

    Our study abroad team is also happy to answer any questions and provide support in a safe, one-on-one advising setting.

    Contact us to schedule an appointment as soon as you are ready.

  • Students of Color Abroad

    We recognize that students of color may face additional concerns and barriers to study abroad and we’re here to help! The information on this page can serve as a starting point but we also provide extensive in-person support to all Spiders in their exploration of study abroad opportunities. In addition, we work in partnership with other campus offices such as Common Ground and the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

    UR is a member of the Diversity Abroad network, the leading international education organization supporting students from diverse backgrounds. Their website has wonderful resources such as this article on Students of Color Abroad. As a member of Diversity Abroad, Spiders also have access to an online learning tool called Abroad360°. This resource is comprised of online learning modules that provide "diverse and underrepresented students with culturally relevant and identity-specific information to enhance learning and support their success while pursuing education abroad”. Check out Abroad360°! We think you’ll find it helpful and interesting.

    Other Valuable Resources

    Talk with an Advisor
    We look forward to working with you! Click here to schedule an appointment with a member of our study abroad team.

  • Accessibility Abroad

    We strive to make UR study abroad accessible to all students, including those who may need accommodation in their learning and living environments while abroad. If you are concerned about ensuring that you will be able to have a successful, safe and secure abroad experience, we have gathered together some important resources below.

    On campus, students who wish to discuss studying abroad with a disability, whether visible or invisible, are encouraged to start planning early and to ask many questions. You can contact an International Education study abroad advisor or the UR Office of Disability Services. We’ll work in partnership to help with any questions or concerns you may have and to help you find the right program to fit your needs.

    Mobility USA is one the premier organizations in the U.S. to help promote, advocate and empower people with disabilities in accessing global experiences.

    NAFSA: Association for International Educators provides an extensive resource library of information for students with disabilities.

  • Country Specific Travel Resources

    Preparation and understanding are keys to making the most of a safe and enriching experience abroad. The resources below are intended to help UR travelers gain a deeper understanding of cultural norms as they impact varying identities. We encourage you to explore these pages for countries you are considering or in advance of traveling to a destination: