OEA Recognizes the International Transgender Day of Visibility
The Office of Education Abroad (OEA) recognizes the International Transgender Day of Visibility and affirms our commitment to providing high-quality, safe, and academically rigorous study abroad experiences to all UNC Charlotte students.
Transgender and other LGBTQ+ students may face special challenges in planning their study abroad experience, but there are just as many benefits and opportunities. In addition to the opportunities for academic and professional growth, study abroad is a chance for you to reflect on your own identity, learn about gender identity around the world, and build connections across cultures.
For transgender students thinking about study abroad, here are a few questions to consider:
- Will I have access to gender-neutral bathrooms, and if not, which bathroom will I be able to use with the least amount of trouble?
- If I am currently transitioning with the aid of hormones, can I take the medical equipment that I need with me abroad? How should I get proof of this and prepare for the airport departure?
- Should I correct people when they get my pronouns wrong? How do I translate my pronouns into the host country’s local language?
- What should I do if the gender on my passport and birth certificate are different?
- Will there be local LGBT groups, and how encompassing are they of the “T”?
- How likely is it that I will be perceived as who I am in my host community?
- Can I request to be placed in a homestay that is welcoming of my identity, or can I find my own housing? Will I have assistance with this?
- Will I experience discrimination in the country I study in? Who can I talk to about it if I do?
Questions adapted from UC Santa Cruz Gender Abroad
Resources
Review the information and resources on this page, and do not hesitate to contact our office with further questions or concerns! We look forward to facilitating your study abroad experience.
Study Abroad Resources
- Air Travel Tips for Transgender Students Studying Abroad
- Breaking the Picture Frame: Studying Abroad While Trans
- Traveling While Transgender: A Journey of Self-Love
- Ni él, ni ella: Being Nonbinary in Spain
- Advice for Studying Abroad as a Transgender Student in Japan
- Know Your Rights: Passports
- Department of State LGBTI Traveler Resources
- 12 Study Abroad Scholarships for LGBT Students