As you prepare to study abroad, it is important to think about your identity, gender plays an important role in shaping your experience. Every host country has its different cultural and social expectations regarding gender and that can affect how you are seen. It is important to understand there may be some expectations on how they expect certain genders to dress and interact with others. We encourage you to do some research ahead of time about how gender roles are said, so you can feel prepared and confident. This page will provide you with resources for all gender identities who plan on studying abroad. Furthermore, our Sexuality and Gender Expression Abroad page has more resources for those who identify outside of the gender binary and or transgender.
Questions to consider
- What are the common gender norms and expectations in the country I am studying abroad in?
- How strict are the gender roles in the culture I will be living in?
- What kinds of gender stereotypes might I encounter, how can this affect my experience?
- How do people of different genders interact with each other in this country? Keep in mind some cultures are more conservative.
- How will said host country expect me to dress, and how does this relate to my gender identity?
- Are there social roles expected on the basis of gender that I should be aware of?
- What are some resources and support systems I can connect with for people of ALL gender identities?
Testimonial From Student - Apart of Community
What SSA is Doing to Support Students
- We provide information about gender norms and cultural expectations in each location.
- We offer guidance to help our students navigate the social norms relating to gender.
- We open safe spaces for our students to discuss their questions and concerns about gender expression abroad.
- We connect students with local support groups during their study abroad program.
- We train our on-site / off-site staff to be gender inclusive and support all students respectfully.
- We encourage you to communicate before and during the program with our staff to deal with any challenges that relate to gender.
