Spending the summer abroad? Studying abroad can be extremely rewarding. However, there are specific issues LGBT students face in using campus-sponsored international programs and services. Resources exist for LGBT students to ease any concerns you may have about traveling abroad.

In addition to housing information on issues affecting LGBT international students studying in the United States, NAFSA, the Association of International Educators’ Rainbow Special Interest Group also provides resources for US students studying abroad.

According to the Rainbow SIG, you may want to consider the following before studying abroad:

It is important to be aware that cultures vary in terms of what is considered appropriate behavior when interacting with someone from another society.

Consider the implications of being identified as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender in the host-culture and how coming out might affect the host-family relationship.

You may need to look outside of the in-country program office for support related to sexual identity issues or LGBT community information. Please see the Rainbow SIG’s resources section to locate resources in the city or country where you are studying.

Before you leave the US, we encourage you to learn as much as possible about the culture-specific norms of friendship and dating for relationships between people of any sexual orientation. Inform yourself of important safe sex practices. See the Rainbow SIG’s healthsection for further information.

Explore and research the cultural, legal, and social issues relevant to the country where you plan to study and travel. Attitudes and tolerance toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender issues vary from country to country.

The Rainbow SIG also offers great questions to consider in processing your experience abroad, links to resources and information for international educators. There are also specific countries on which the Rainbow SIG has compiled relevant information.

So, do your research, get your passport and explore!