Diversity and identity resources

When you study off campus, whether in another country or in the U.S., you’ll engage with new perspectives and ways of life. You’ll expand your worldview, deepen your curiosity, and sharpen your intercultural skills.

But no two off-campus experiences are the same. The identities you hold, including your race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, and sexuality, may shape how you're perceived in your host community and how you see the world around you. Understanding those dynamics can help you prepare for a more confident, informed, and empowering experience.

We’ll support you every step of the way, including through our pre-departure newsletter series. For now, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Race, ethnicity, and nationality

Like in America, discrimination based on racial and ethnic prejudices exists in other countries. Still, during your time abroad you may encounter situations that challenge your understanding of discrimination and racism. Make sure to do a little research about your host country before you leave. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• While traveling abroad, you will often first be identified as an American; your racial and ethnic identity may fall second to your national identity.
• In some places, you may receive extra attention because of the color of your skin, your hair, accent, or dress. Safety always comes first, but try to distinguish between ignorance or curiosity, and willful discrimination.
• Know the facts: Who are the racial and ethnic minorities in your host country? Are there laws concerning racial and ethnic discrimination? How is your ethnic group perceived in your host country? What stereotypes prevail? Will you be part of a majority or minority for the first time? How, if at all, will these factors impact your experience abroad.

Gender and sexuality

Ideas about gender roles, relationships, and identity vary widely. In some regions, behaviors that are common in the U.S., like making eye contact or dressing a certain way, may carry different social signals. In others, LGBTQ+ identity and expression may not be openly accepted or protected.

Rather than asking you to suppress who you are, our goal is to help you travel safely, smartly, and respectfully with a strong support system behind you.

Here are a few tips as you prepare:

• Research local gender norms and laws before you travel. Know how women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and gender-diverse people are perceived and treated in the culture you're entering.
• Learn from local women and LGBTQ+ voices. Notice how they interact in public, navigate attention, or build community. Let their strategies guide your own.
• Choose your presentation intentionally. If blending in enhances your safety or comfort, consider adjusting dress or behavior,  not as erasure, but as strategy.
• Plan ahead for unfamiliar situations. Know how you’ll get home safely at night, where the nearest LGBTQ+ community centers are (if applicable), or how to deflect unwanted attention.
• Be selective about disclosure. In some cases, sharing your gender identity or sexual orientation may carry risks. We encourage you to talk with Off-Campus Study & Exchanges or your program provider about how “out” you want or need to be in your host community

Skidmore resources

Skidmore offers a network of support for students preparing to go abroad:

• Office of Student Diversity Programs
• Counseling Center
• Student Wellness Center
• Religious and Spiritual Life
• Student Academic Services (Disability and Accessibility)

Connect with these offices early — they’re here to help you navigate everything from housing accommodations to emotional wellness, identity exploration, and beyond.