Diversity in Study Abroad 

MSU values diversity in its students, faculty, and staff and is committed to non-discrimination. It holds itself to certain standards of conduct more stringent than those mandated by law. MSU does not discriminate based on age, color, gender, gender identity, disability status, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or weight.

As in the United States, some societies and groups are more open to accepting diversity than others. People react differently to looks and behaviors they are not accustomed to or that appear unusual. Reports from students of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds are varied, from those who felt exhilarated by being free of the U.S. American context of race relations, to those who experienced different degrees of curiosity about their ethnicity.

You may have to deal with the possibility of outright racism abroad, the possibility of insensitive attitudes and inadequate facilities for students with disabilities, or the presence of homophobia towards gay and lesbian students.

You may find that your “U.S.-Americanness” is a more important factor in determining your treatment abroad than your religious, racial or ethnic heritage, or physical abilities. While this may be difficult to deal with at times, some members of your host culture will see you as a representative of the U.S. first, and as an individual personality second.

If you have not already done so, schedule an appointment with the OSA Program Coordinator responsible for your program. This person will provide information and descriptions of the local cultural realities that will assist you in your preparation to go abroad. Additionally, the coordinator may be able to put you in direct touch with other students who have studied in your particular country and can share their experiences with these attitudes and customs.

If you are a student with children, please note that accommodations abroad for your children may be difficult to arrange or unavailable.

OSA has developed more specific information for various diverse student populations on the student portion of our website including such topics as issues to consider, scholarship opportunities, and links to additional resources.