When you embark on your study abroad journey, your racial, ethnic, and national identities may be perceived differently than they are in the United States. Depending on where you go, you may encounter yourself part of a racial/ethnic majority or minority for the first time. You may also encounter new understandings about what it means to be from the United States and truth is, that may come with assumptions, curiosity, or even stereotypes. Every student's experience is different, and navigating identity abroad can bring opportunities for growth but also some challenges. Taking time to reflect on your identity before you go, learning about the cultural atmosphere of your host country, can help you become readily prepared. Please know that you are not alone and we are here to provide resources, student stories, and support networks that will guide you through your journey.
Questions to Consider
- What racial, ethnic, and national identities do I hold in my country, and how do they shape my experiences?
- How might identities abroad be perceived in my study abroad country?
- What is the history of race, ethnicity, and migration in the country I am studying abroad in? Are there social or political tensions that I should consider?
- If I experience racism, discrimination, or micro-agressions abroad, who can I reach out to for support (on-site or back home)?
- What campus programs / resources are available to help me prepare before I go and to support me while I am abroad?
- Will I have access to my culturally specific items I may need, such as certain foods, hair or skin care products, or spiritual / religious spaces?
What SSA is Doing to Support Students
Here is how we support our students
- Our on-site staff and off-site staff are trained to support students from all racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds. We constantly engage in professional development that focuses on equity, inclusion, and multicultural understanding.
- We offer cultural workshops, speakers, and encourage open discussion among students to reflect on identity and build cultural awareness in all spaces.
- We help students connect with student organizations, local organizations, and other events so that they can find community abroad.
- We offer one-on-one support, whether you need help preparing to go abroad or face an issue while in your host country, our staff are here for individual check-ins and guidance. We make sure that we take the time to understand your needs and work with you to find solutions.
- We offer guides on accessing culturally specific products and services to tips on identity abroad, we are here to provide you with the tools you need to feel confident during your journey.
- SSA regularly collects student feedback to better understand our students’ needs and improve our programming. Student voices are what shapes the way we continue to move forward.
1-on-1 Meeting
To support you in this process, we encourage students to schedule a 1-on-1 meeting with a staff member to discuss any questions or concerns that relate to gender and studying abroad.
Studying abroad in Sevilla with SSA was truly life-changing. From my incredible host family to the vibrant city streets, every moment was unforgettable. Living in such a warm, welcoming place made me more social and confident, and the balance between academics and adventure was perfect. SSA’s support made everything seamless, even when my luggage got lost! If you're on the fence, go for it—Sevilla might just choose you, like it did for me!
