Diversity and Inclusion Abroad

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Study abroad is an incredible opportunity to grow academically and personally while at Central Michigan University. Traveling and learning abroad is possible for all students, and the Office of Study Abroad is committed to serve CMU's diverse student body regardless of your identity or background.

Your Study Abroad advisors are always ready to assist you. Please explore the resources below. Explore this Diversity Guide to learn more about how your identity may be impacted during your experience abroad.

General Diversity and Inclusion Abroad Resources

Explore this Diversity Guide to learn more about how your identity may be impacted during your experience abroad. Diversity Abroad also has articles and tips to help you on your journey.
AllAbroad has helpful information for finding funding, programs, and answers to your questions about diversity abroad.
Learn more about Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility Abroad through the ISEP Study Abroad Resources.
Get information about student diversity and access through IES Abroad's online guide.
UNPACKED: A Study Abroad Guide for Students Like Me offers insight into what study abroad looks like for many diverse groups of students.
eDiplomat has provided information about cultural etiquette around the world.

Destination Guides

Discover country-specific information about your study abroad destination.
IES Abroad also provides country-specific diversity resources.
Learn more about Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility Abroad through the ISEP Study Abroad Resources.
Passport information for transgender students is provided by the US Department of State.

LGBTQ Students

When traveling abroad, you could encounter attitudes and laws regarding LGBTQ individuals that vary greatly from what you experience in the U.S. Learning as much as possible before you leave will help to prepare you for your study abroad experience. Your Study Abroad advisor is happy to help you plan for your program.

Resources

The Office of LGBTQ and Gender Equity Programs is a supportive resource for CMU students.
Explore Michigan State University's LGBTQ+ travel information.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association provides a map of sexual orientation laws in the world.
Passport information for transgender students is provided by the US Department of State.
Rainbow Special Interest Group (SIG) is run by NAFSA: Association of International Educators professionals who seek to assist LGBTQ individuals in all aspects of international education.
LGBTQ Travel Information also is provided by the U.S. State Department.

Students of Color

Our core mission is to foster intercultural understanding at home and in a larger global context. We are committed to providing equitable services to all students, and to increase student of color participation in all study abroad opportunities.

Resources

The Center for Student Inclusion and Diversity houses different offices, programs, and resources for students at CMU.
Diversity Abroad is a comprehensive website committed to assisting students of all races and ethnicities to go abroad. Diversity Abroad also has scholarships available.
Open Doors completes an annual report that includes national data on study abroad participation among students of color. Search under Data Tables for information on US students studying abroad.
PLATO: Project providing resources, scholarships and tips to historically underrepresented students in study abroad.
PDF from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington introducing resources for multi-racial and multi-ethnic individuals.

First-Generation Students

Being a first-generation students doesn't mean you can't study abroad! Meet with an advisor to learn about the opportunities available to help you accomplish your study abroad goals.

Resources

Diversity Abroad's guide for first-generation study abroad students.
"I'm First!" Blog: Article with advice on increasing accessibility to study abroad as a first generation student.
First-gen student with study abroad question? Check out this free e-book!
SAI Programs shares student bloggers' stories about studying abroad. Here is a great story about studying abroad as a first-gen student.
IFSA shares the story of how a first-gen student prepared to study abroad.

Women Abroad

Sometimes travel as a woman can be an intimidating thing. Check out these resources to help you feel safe and confident in your travels.

Resources

The SAFETI Project offers safety information for women abroad.
Read more about women abroad from the Diversity Abroad website.
U.S. Department of State's health, safety and security advice for women.

Students with Disabilities

At Central Michigan University we are determined to help all students to study abroad! Your Study Abroad Advisor will work to help you find a program with the accessibility you need.

Resources

The Office of Student Disability Services works closely with our advising team to help determine reasonable accommodations for students registered with their office and who are planning to study abroad.
Mobility International is an organization dedicated to facilitating international experiences for students with disabilities.
Learn some of the "must ask" questions for students with disabilities planning to study abroad.
The U.S. Department of State has a resource for travelers with disabilities.
A Disabilities Orientation video by the University of Minnesota addresses some important questions to consider.

Non-Traditional Students

Feel like you may not be the "traditional" study abroad student? Not a problem! Your advisor will tell you that there isn't really a "traditional" study abroad student or experience. We are here to help you have a study abroad experience that is unique to your needs as a student.

Resources

There are no age limits to study abroad – read more here! Stop by the office to discuss your unique needs.