Going abroad to another country as a woman of color sparks questions about tolerance, safety, and inclusion. However, studying abroad is for everyone. Few know that better than our WOC study abroad alumnas, who shared their experiences from all over the world. Their takeaway? Despite the challenges, it’s worth it—and you are not alone.
1. Aliya Loney, Italy ‘23
“As a woman of color, studying abroad in a predominantly white country with very little diversity was something I thought a lot about prior to leaving for my trip. While on my trip, my friends and I did encounter a lot of discrimination, staring, etc. which impacted us a lot. My advice to other students who are planning to go abroad is to ignore ignorant people while also standing up for yourself. It is important not to engage too much with such people but still stick up for yourself and your beliefs.”
2. Alyssa Taylor, Korea ‘22
“I am going to give my advice as an African American woman and GVPT student so take what you may. First, don't let the fear of being the only one (in my case Black woman) stop you from going to different places. My first semester I dreaded going out because I always got stared at and disliked the attention. But by the second semester I realized that people are going to stare and I am not going to let them make me not live my best life by trying out new things and doing what I want. Second, you will have awkward experiences. If they are good awkward learn to laugh it off and if they are bad learn to not take it to heart.”
3. Katherine Badia, Spain ‘23
“Studying abroad as a person of color presented me with a unique set of challenges, but with the right approach and mindset, it is manageable. I would recommend that students of color do thorough research on the location they are considering for study abroad. Understanding the demographics and cultural context of the place you'll be living in can help you navigate potential challenges and prepare mentally. Additionally, seeking out and connecting with a community of individuals who share similar backgrounds can be immensely helpful. I was able to create my own community of students of color which helped me feel more comfortable.”
4. Gabrielle Jacques, London ‘23
“As a African-American woman studying abroad in Europe, I was really nervous at first but that all went away when I got there. Speaking of London specifically, I feel extremely comfortable and safe day and night. I would still say to be vigilant and travel with more than one person if you can but people are very kind and the area is very diverse.”
5. Alina Saif, Denmark ‘19
“I am a woman of color and a Muslim-American. The hesitations of going abroad as minority group members due to safety, cultural reservations, or lack of seeing potential growth is common. However, I MUST urge you to do it! Studying abroad at UMD provides a lot of resources for you to utilize to understand and combat issues such as financial pressure, academic success and personal safety while abroad. Study abroad is for everyone and through [Education Abroad] resources, and those provided nationally and through UMD, it can most definitely be a reality. My time abroad taught me loads about my field, becoming a global citizen and what it means to be an American.”
6. Tumi Akin-Sodipo, Singapore ‘20
“My advice to everyone is 'just be yourself'. As a woman of color, specifically African American, I found that I was the only person of color in both Singapore and Taiwan. Taiwan was a little different because it wasn't as diverse as Singapore was. A lot of people were fascinated by my braids but I went with such expectation. This shouldn't discourage you from going because studying abroad is one of the best things I have ever done. Do your research before you go so you are familiar with the dynamics of each country and then go and have fun!”
7. Kaya Benitez, Spain ‘19
“As a Black and Puerto Rican woman, I know that it can be discouraging to think about traveling to areas where you don't anticipate seeing people who look like you. Although I was the only Black girl in my program in Barcelona and that intimidated me at first, I was able to meet great people and find comfort in my surroundings. You can too! I would advise everyone to make study abroad a priority. In my opinion, it should be required by universities. Nothing gives you a brighter perspective like an experience in an entirely new environment. If you get the opportunity to study abroad, (even if you cannot coordinate going with friends) I would suggest that you do everything in your power to make it happen!”
8. Harriet Dadzie, Austria ‘16
“As a person of color and a woman going into the business field, my advice is to be confident in yourself as well as positive-minded. While abroad, I did receive stares and comments that made me feel uncomfortable. However, if you are positive, you attract positive people who want to learn about you and appreciate you. Also, being abroad allows you to learn about other cultures and opinions that may help you grow in your view of yourself. Don't forget that this is your experience and how you look at yourself is a big part of it.”
9. Serena Saunders, UK ‘18
“As a woman of color, I would definitely recommend being open-minded when abroad! There were a few experiences on my trip where discussions around British colonialism could have been heated, but we all tried to calmly understand each others' perspectives and we actually learned from each other. As a Public Policy major, I would say that thinking about the history, culture, etc. of your study abroad location in real-time gives you much more perspective on the policies of today. Being able to interact with locals and gather their opinions on policies that might be unrecognizable or complicated to us as foreigners was really enlightening for me.”
10. Vivien Zhu, Germany ‘19
“In certain places, I have encountered a lower degree of sensitivity to social issues as compared to the United States. This is most apparent when talking to students who actually attend my exchange university, as well as other exchange students in my program. Traveling through Europe as an Asian woman, I have experienced ignorance here and there, but I haven't felt more endangered than I would at home. The same precautions apply as they always do when thinking about your own safety, particular in larger cities. However, I'm also aware that there is obvious colorism in many European countries as well, and although I haven't experienced it first hand, it is definitely something to be aware of when studying abroad.”
___
Are you a woman of color looking to study abroad, but you’re not sure where to start?
We have the resources to support you. Make an appointment with an Education Abroad advisor today.