Your Identity Abroad
At Penn State Global, we recognize that every student's identity is multi-dimensional, shaped by various intersecting factors such as race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ability, religious affiliation and more - and we acknowledge, celebrate, and support the many identities of our students.
Education abroad offers you the opportunity to engage with different cultures, languages, and perspectives, which can foster academic and personal growth. However, it's essential to recognize that these experiences can be impacted by your intersecting identities. Factors such as cultural norms, societal attitudes, and legal protections related to identity may impact your education abroad journey.
To prepare you for what to anticipate abroad, we want to provide you with information and resources related to social identities and global experiences. Take a look at the information on these pages and reach out to your education abroad adviser if you have any questions about how your identity might be perceived in your program's host country.
At Penn State Global, we recognize that every student's identity is multi-dimensional, shaped by various intersecting factors such as race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ability, religious affiliation and more - and we acknowledge, celebrate, and support the many identities of our students.
Education abroad offers you the opportunity to engage with different cultures, languages, and perspectives, which can foster academic and personal growth. However, it's essential to recognize that these experiences can be impacted by your intersecting identities. Factors such as cultural norms, societal attitudes, and legal protections related to identity may impact your education abroad journey.
To prepare you for what to anticipate abroad, we want to provide you with information and resources related to social identities and global experiences. Take a look at the information on these pages and reach out to your education abroad adviser if you have any questions about how your identity might be perceived in your program's host country.
Disability & Mental Health
Adjusting to new environments abroad can be challenging, so it's helpful to know what to expect.
First-Generation Students
You've already taken one big step by being the first to go to college - what will it look like when you decide to go abroad?
Race & Ethnicity
Education abroad is an experience designed for all students, and we support students' journeys equitably.
Dietary Restrictions
Trying new foods from other cultures can be exciting - as long as you do so safely.
LGBTQ+ Students
Global attitudes on the LGBTQ+ community vary and evolve, so research and preparation is key!
Gender Identity
Your gender identity may be perceived in unexpected ways abroad. Learn more about how to prepare.
Heritage Seeking Students
Choosing your program location for its ties to your ancestry can lead to a powerful education abroad experience.
Religion, Faith, & Spirituality
Religious and spiritual practices vary around the world, so it's good to know what your religious freedom and community might look like abroad.
Veterans & GI Bill Recipients
Working with the Office of Veteran Programs and the Education Abroad Office is vital to understanding the opportunities available to you.
Adult Learners
Education abroad has no age limit! Adult learners are encouraged to participate in our programs.
International Students
You may already be participating in a global learning experience, but you're welcome to take advantage of another education abroad opportunity!
Allyship Abroad
Regardless of our personal identities, we all benefit from being allies to our peers.
