Identity
It is important to consider your identity within the context of global studies and the context of your host destination and program. Take some time to learn about the place and environment you will be studying in and how different aspects of your identity may be perceived in that context.
St. Kate's students who receive accommodations are also eligible for accommodations abroad, when it can be arranged. It is important to plan in advance and work closely with your support team at St. Kate's and your study abroad program. We encourage students to disclose any accessibility concerns early in the study abroad process, so we can best support you. Check out some of the following resources and consider some of these questions as you prepare for your study abroad experience.
Questions to consider:
- What is the physical environment of my program?
- What are some of the accessibility considerations or concerns I have?
- What is the academic environment of my program?
- What are some of the accessibility considerations or concerns I have?
- What are some steps I can take now to prepare for managing my condition while abroad?
- Am I comfortable disclosing my condition to my Global Studies Advisor?
Resources:
- Mobility International USA - Study abroad information and resources for students with disabilities.
- Accessibility Abroad - A comprehensive resource on accessibility abroad (including checklists, tips, videos, and student experiences) from the University of Minnesota.
- Abroad With Disabilities (AWD) - Abroad With Disabilities (AWD) - Facebook page community that empowers disabled individuals to go abroad. Ask questions and share experiences.
- Access to Exchange Summit - AES is a 2-day weekend/online preparatory course designed for a cohort of U.S. individuals with disabilities about the many opportunities to study or volunteer abroad and to provide guidance about disability-related considerations.
As the first person in your family to navigate higher education and global studies, you and your family likely have a lot of questions about this unique experience. The Office of Global Studies is here to support you and your family in pursuing this opportunity. Check out some of the resources below and please reach out to us if you have questions. We are happy to talk with your family members, too!
Resources:
- IES Student Voices - Being a First-Generation Study Abroad
- Before You Go Articles - Meaningful Travel Tips and Tales from First Generation Students Abroad
- Diversity Abroad - Helpful resources from a leading international organization committed to preparing diverse students for experiences abroad
- All Abroad - Study abroad resource for students and parents
Participating in a Global studies program is a great way to travel for the first time because you will not go alone. Throughout your program, you will have the support of the Office of Global Studies, your program staff and faculty, and other students. Planning ahead can help put you at ease by knowing what to do and what to expect. Being humble, open-minded, and adaptable is also important for travel success.
Check out some of the resources below for answers to frequently asked travel questions. If you have other questions or want to talk through logistics more in-depth, please reach out to the Office of Global Studies to schedule an appointment.
Questions to consider:
- What is a Student Visa?
- How do I buy a plane ticket?
- How do I check in for my flight?
- What do I do once I get to the airport?
- What is Immigration and Customs?
Resources:
- What do I pack? - Use this resource as a starting point. Your program should also provide some guidance for what to bring that is specific to your host destination and program
- Global Studies - Travel Basics Video
- Go Overseas - 8 Useful International Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers
Take some time to learn about the attitudes toward gender identity and gender roles in your host country. Cultural norms in your host country will likely differ from your previous personal experience. It is important to know cultural norms around gender in the host country so that you are prepared to navigate your international experience.
Resources:
- ILGA World - The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association - Country-specific information about legal rights and social climate
- Diversity Abroad: Women Going Abroad
- A trans* guide for staying safe while traveling
- Transgender People and Airport Security
For LGBTQIA+ students, an important step in preparation for a global studies program, is learning about the host destination LGBTQIA+ climate and community. Your program can provide you with site-specific resources and may also be able to introduce you to local LGBTQIA+ organizations and activists. You can also check out some of the following blogs from former students and international resources for LGBTQIA+ students.
Resources:
- ILGA World – The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association - Country-specific information about legal rights and social climate
- Rainbow SIG: Resources for LGBTQIA+ Students Abroad
- GlobalGayz – Gay Travel, Culture and LGBT Human Rights - Travel journals from LGBT persons all over the world
- Outright Action International - Human rights organization for LGBTQIA+ people everywhere
You may experience a very different racial and ethnic environment on a global studies program. It may be the first time you experience being an ethnic or racial majority or minority. The experience could have an impact on how you think about your identity. Here are some resources to help prepare for how race and ethnicity are perceived in your host destination. Check out some of the student blogs and videos for examples of common experiences.
Resources:
- Diversity Abroad Destination Guides - Check out Diversity Abroad's Culture & Diversity Destination Guide for your host country
- Video: Multicultural Students Abroad - Reflections from UMN students of color who studied abroad
- All Abroad - Study abroad resource for students and parents. Includes specific resources for African-American, Asian Pacific Islander American, Hispanic-American and Native-American students. Hyphenated Americans In Study Abroad
- Hyphenated Americans In Study Abroad
While studying abroad, you may encounter new or unfamiliar religious spirituality, beliefs, and practices. There may or may not be a place of worship that fits your needs. Learning about the host country's religions and which places of worship are available before your departure is recommended.
Resources:
- Religion & Spirituality Abroad - Resources from Brown University's Office of International Programs.
- Religion & Spirituality Considerations Abroad - A comprehensive resource from Northwestern University
- World Religions Data
- U.S. Department of State - International Religious Freedom Report
Planning your global studies experience
The Office of Global Studies is here to support students in planning for virtual, international or U.S. programs. Check out some of the information below about how you can apply to global studies programs.