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Study Abroad Office
Novel coronavirus information
Study Abroad FAQs | Spring 2021 update | Novel coronavirus updates
Racially or Ethnically Diverse Students
Studying abroad can offer you the opportunity to think about your identity in a new way. Racial and ethnic relations vary by culture, meaning that while you’re abroad you may be part of an ethnic majority for the first time in your life. Also, you could be presented with an amazing opportunity to connect with and learn about your ancestral history and culture first-hand.
On the other hand, students of different ethnic and racial backgrounds may have a challenging transition from life in your community to life as a student in a different culture. People may categorize and interpret your race, ethnicity and other identity attributes quite differently than what you are used to. There is the possibility that you may encounter microaggressions or overt discrimination. You also may not be able to find culturally-specific products you are used to, like beauty or haircare.
But, do not feel pressured to mask your identity. You may find that confronting and coping with your adjustment abroad can be a positive growth experience, even if challenging at times. Also be sure to constantly stay in touch with your support systems: family, friends, and even your International Coordinator!
You can prepare yourself for the situations you may encounter by researching the minority and majority racial/ethnic composition of your host country and exploring its history of racial and ethnic relations.
Tips to keep in mind
- Find Students of Color who have recently studied abroad and ask them about their experiences.
- Look at international news sources to get a sense of current political and societal issues in your host country.
- If you experience difficulties, don’t be afraid to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They are available 24/7 at every embassy to provide emergency assistance to Americans.
Questions you may want to consider, research and ask about
- What are the cultural norms of my host country?
- How will I be perceived in my host community?
- Will there be other students of color in my program?
- Will I experience discrimination in the country I study in? Who can I contact if I do?
Resources for more information
General Information:
- Racial and Ethnic Minority Students Abroad - a helpful list of tips and must-ask questions for racial and ethnic minority students from Diversity Abroad
- Project for Learning Abroad, Training and Outreach (PLATO) - resources and scholarship opportunities meant to encourage and support study abroad among minority students
Asian-American Students:
- Asian American/Pacific Islander Students Abroad - A resource page from the State University of New York
Black and African-American Students:
- STAMPED - A podcast on Anchor and Spotify of Black Students' experiences abroad, how they overcame fears, and explored their identity abroad.
- Top 10 Reasons for African American Students to Go Abroad - some things to consider from Transitions Abroad
- Travelling with Natural Hair - An IES panel from Black Individual's hair-care journeys while abroad, and a list of tips for managing this.
- Being Black in an African Country - An article by an ASU student on her experience in Morocco, sharing how she turned a harsh reality into a positive experience
- My Very Personal Taste of Racism Abroad - a New York Times essay from an African-American woman who had an eye-opening experience due to a series of troubling racial encounters while studying abroad in Italy
LatinX and Hispanic Students:
- 10 Reasons for Hispanic-American Students to Study Abroad - Article from the Hispanic Network
- 7 Study Abroad Scholarships for Hispanic Students - GoAbroad Article
- My Study Abroad Experience as a First-Generation Mexican-American - Article by ISA Today
Native American Students:
- Native American Students Abroad - A resource page from the State University of New York
- Native Land - An interactive map to know what indigenous land you are on anywhere in the world. For example, When we are in Tempe, we are on O'odham Land.
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian Students:
- Asian American/Pacific Islander Students Abroad - A resource page from the State University of New York