Study Abroad

Contents:
  • Why Study Abroad
  • Preparing to Study Abroad
  • While You're Abroad
  • When You Return
  • How To Get Started
  • Additional Resources
This web resource was developed by LaSharon McLean Perez of the UCR International Education Center in 2008.

Why Study Abroad

Study Abroad can be the most rewarding experience of your college education–both academically and personally:
  • You earn UC credit for the work you do on EAP or transfer credit on OAP.
  • It's affordable.
  • The GPA requirements are reasonable ranging from 2.5 to 3.5.
  • You don't have to go away for a year.
  • You don't have to be fluent in another language.
  • Programs are available for all majors and all class levels.
  • Many programs focus on the sciences.
  • Laboratory, internship, and field research opportunities are offered at many locations.
  • International experience looks great on your résumé.
  • EAP focuses on safety.
  • It's not too late to apply!
Preparing to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a golden opportunity to live another culture, soak up a second language, and transform yourself as a citizen and as a human being. If you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, or an ally this could include experimenting with and expressing different identities, both sexual and non-sexual.

Take that into account when you choose a study abroad location and program. Of course you'll want to satisfy your academic and extracurricular needs, but also evaluate the aspects of the environment that could affect how you express your sexual orientation and gender identity. LGBT life exists almost everywhere, but the degree to which it’s visible at first glance varies. As you get to know people and places more intimately, you'll usually find a plethora of welcoming institutions and hangouts. Approach expressing your sexual and gender identity as just another cross-cultural challenge.

Be positive and flexible, use sensitivity and openness in every interaction, and your time abroad will be the most satisfying of your life.

While You're Abroad

You will find that attitudes and tolerance toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender issues vary from country to country, and even within the US. Some countries are more welcoming and legally protective than the US, while others may be less accepting and more restrictive. All students need to be aware of the legal issues related to sexuality and gender in other countries. LGBT students need information regarding the receptivity and social climate of the host country.

Take the time to learn about:
  • LGBT organizations and support resources
  • Laws of the host culture
  • Norms/styles of behavior in the host culture
  • LGBT media
  • General attitudes toward LGBT persons
  • Meeting places
When You Return

A journey abroad is a time of personal growth and discovery. Many transformations in personal development and self-awareness can occur, prompted by the fact that the restrictions of the home culture have been removed. Returning home is therefore a time of transition that can be difficult at times.
  • If you choose to come out while abroad, how will this affect your return to friends and family?
  • Will you be able to re-integrate these relationships upon your return or will you need to find a different supportive community?
  • Be aware before you come back home of the ways in which you may have changed both independent of and as a result of your coming out.
  • Consider the implications of coming out when back home. Often family and friends may want to dismiss your sexual orientation and gender identity as temporary due to the experience abroad, rather than acknowledge a lifelong identity.
How To Get Started

Come by the International Education Center office in the Statistics Computer Building, Room 1669 and sign up for an Information Session to learn about study abroad opportunities and options. Staff advisors and student interns who have recently returned from studying abroad are eager to answer your questions.

Additional Resources

NAFSA: Association of International Educators
Rainbow Special Interest Group
www.indiana.edu/~overseas/lesbigay/student.htm

This site offers extensive resource information to help students better understand the benefits and challenges of studying, traveling, and living in a new culture.

International Lesbian and Gay Association
www.ilga.org

This site is a world-wide network of national and local groups dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender and intersex people everywhere.  This site offers a country-by-country survey of the legal position for LGBT people.

National Center for Transgender Equality -
Air Travel Tips for Transgender People
www.nctequality.org/airtravel.pdf

This documents offers travel tips for transgender people who have endured the increased scrutiny, harassment, and discrimination while trying to travel due to the heightened airport security.

Damron
www.damron.com

This site offers a searchable online database of worldwide gay and lesbian travel listings, including accommodations, hotels, resorts, bars, nightclubs, and more.

International Education Center
Statistics Computer Building, Room 1669
Tel: 951-827-4113
Fax: 951-827-378
www.internationalcenter.ucr.edu

See us for your international needs!
  • Education Abroad Program
  • Opportunities Abroad Program
  • Travel Resource Library
  • International Student ID Cards
  • Hostelling International Cards