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Racial and Ethnic Minority 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, we recognize that students of different ethnic and racial backgrounds may have a challenging transition from your life here in the United States to your life as a student living abroad. People may categorize and interpret your race, ethnicity and other identity attributes quite differently than what you are used to in the U.S. There is the possibility that you may encounter some stares, comments, and overt discrimination during your travels.
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 family, friends, and Study Abroad advisor. Use them as support systems!
You can prepare yourself for the situations you may encounter by researching the minority, majority, and plurality racial and ethnic composition of your host country and exploring its history of racial and ethnic relations.
Tips to keep in mind
- Reach out to minority students 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. They won’t pass judgment on you and will protect your privacy.
- Be prepared if an incident does arise, but don't go abroad expecting racism or discrimination.
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 minority students in my program?
- Will I experience discrimination in the country I study in? Who can I contact if I do?
Resources for more information
- 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
- Diversity Issues in Study Abroad – a collection of quotes by Brown University students about their experiences abroad
- Asian, black students benefit most from study abroad - a report from the UK's Education International Unit outlining the benefits for minority students
- Racial and Ethnic Minority Students Abroad - a helpful list of tips and must-ask questions for racial and ethnic minority students
- 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
- Project for Learning Abroad, Training and Outreach (PLATO) - resources and scholarship opportunities meant to encourage and support study abroad among minority students
- Scholarships for Multicultural Students – list published by Michigan State University with more scholarship opportunities specifically for racial and ethnic minority students
- U.S. Embassy Information - find contact information for the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your host country (be sure to save this resource in your phone!)
- Top 10 Reasons for African American Students to Go Abroad- some things to consider from Transitions Abroad