Working with Diverse Students
The Study Abroad Office is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment and to encouraging a diverse student population to study abroad. As Program Directors and valued colleagues it is important to continue this commitment throughout the design and implementation of your program. To best support Programs Directors in this mission we have curated some resources below.
For all students studying abroad can be an empowering and challenging experience; particularly from diverse and or underrepresented identities. By leading students on a study abroad program, you may find yourself assisting students as they navigate unfamiliar, challenging and thought-provoking situations. Thus, in addition to teaching the content of your course and introducing the culture of the host country, you may also find yourselves working with students as they explore their varying identities.
Here are some resources that may be helpful as NC State students plan and prepare for study abroad.
Things to consider
- In what ways can I create a commitment to diversity, positive group dynamics, and a culture of care within my program?
- Does my program require a particular level of physical mobility? Are there ways in which I can make my program more accessible to students with limited mobility?
- Is there a way to connect students from underrepresented populations to a local, shared identity-based community for my students?
- What can you do to prepare to discuss diversity issues in the host country? Are there any guest lecturers you can invite to provide a framework and lead a discussion regarding current local issues related to diversity, discrimination, or inclusion initiatives?
When a student’s need arises that you’ve not encountered before, are not comfortable with, or are unable to address, please contact your program coordinator. We have a wealth of resources available at NC State; we want to work with you and our students to make study abroad accessible to all of our students.
Identity-Based Resources
As you prepare to work with your students you may find the Identity- Based Resources below helpful.
As Program Directors it may also be helpful to explore the topic of identity while here at NC State. In order to best prepare, you may want to consider working through identity-related questions and topics with resources on campus.