Diversity & Identity Abroad
The UofM Study Abroad Office encourages all students to participate in transformational,
international experiences. To assist with preparations, below are some resources and
things to consider. We also welcome students to make an appointment with an advisor
to discuss any concerns or questions about identity and diversity abroad, as the socio-cultural
context of the host country might differ from that of the United States.
Have questions about a specific country?
Diversity Abroad offers Country Climate Notes for several popular international destinations.
First Generation Students
- Diversity Abroad Network – education abroad tips and resources for first-generation students – including articles and a comprehensive guide with country specific information.
- I’m First! – provides blog posts by first generation students about their education abroad experiences
- GoAbroad Meaningful Travel Tips and Tales provides ebooks that address specific topics:
Minority Students
- Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) at the University of Memphis - Recognizing that diversity and inclusion are key components to our students' learning experience, this office offers a wide range of opportunities for leadership development, programs, events, scholarships, travel and guest lectures to help you embrace the diversity around you.
- Diversity Abroad – education abroad tips, scholarship opportunities, and resources for racial & ethnic minority students abroad – including articles and comprehensive guides with country specific information.
- AllAbroad – provides information and resources for multicultural students abroad.
- GoAbroad: Meaningful Travel Tips and Tales provides ebooks that address specific topics:
- Black & Abroad – provides travel guides, tips and information written for the Black world travelers.
LGBTQ+ Students
- Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) at the University of Memphis - Recognizing that diversity and inclusion are key components to our students' learning experience, this office offers a wide range of opportunities for leadership development, programs, events, scholarships, travel and guest lectures to help you embrace the diversity around you.
- Diversity Abroad – Education abroad tips and resources for LGBTQ+ students - including a comprehensive LGBTQ+ Student Guide with country specific information.
- International GLBTI Association – Has a world map with information about laws specific to LGBTI+ communities.
- U.S. Department of State LGBTI Travel Information – Recommendations for LGBTQ+ travelers.
- NAFSA Rainbow SIG – This organization provides a scholarship made possible by a group of international education professionals who are committed to advocating on behalf of LGBTQ+ students.
- National Center for Transgender Equality: Airport Security – Information on your rights and what to expect for transgender travelers at airport security.
Students with Disabilities
- Disability Resources for Students (DRS) at the University of Memphis - DRS arranges, coordinates and provides academic accommodations and support services for qualified students with disabilities, including students studying abroad.
- Diversity Abroad – education abroad tips and resources for students with disabilities – including articles and a comprehensive guide with country specific information.
- Mobility International USA – global non-profit committed to advancing disability rights and leadership. Its
website and staff provide guidance related to international exchanges, travel preparations,
and program development. The website provides helpful tip sheets:
- 10 Steps to Bring Your Service Animal or Guide Dog to Another Country *Note: this is NOT a guide for an emotional support animal
- Using Personal Assistance Services Abroad
- Preparations for Travel with a Physical Disability
- U.S. Department of State Traveling with Disabilities – provides recommendations for travelers with disabilities.
- Transportation Security Administration – provides details on available airport assistance and guidelines on traveling for those with disabilities, service dogs and animals, or medical conditions.
- Abroad with Disabilities – is a nonprofit committed to promoting individuals with disabilities to travel abroad. Its website provides scholarship opportunities and preparation resources.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – provides guidance on traveling abroad with medicine.
- International Narcotics Control Board – provides country-specific guidelines on medications and drug regulations.
- Curb Free with Cory Lee – provides travelling experiences from the perspective of a wheelchair user, as well as tips/tricks for successfully travelling to various places with a wheelchair.
- The Global Access Files – provides guides for advising students with disabilities and ways to make international education more inclusive.
Spirituality and Religion
- Diversity Abroad – education abroad tips and resources - including articles and a comprehensive guide to religious diversity abroad with country specific information.
- BBC Religion and Ethics – provide resources on different world religions and news on current events.
- The Pluralism Project – this site is managed by Harvard University, which is known for its interfaith research and engaging students studying religious diversity.
- PEW - Templeton Global Religious Futures Project – this site offers religious demography and survey results for most countries worldwide.