Identity, Access, and Inclusion

Identity, Access, and Inclusion

The UMass Education Abroad Office believes that there is value in studying abroad for all identities. We are committed to offering accessible experiences to UMass Amherst students of all backgrounds and we place a high priority on students traditionally underrepresented in education abroad.

You may find that cultures vary widely in terms of how different identities are defined and understood, including nationality; race and ethnicity; religion; gender; sexual orientation; disability; and socioeconomic diversity.

In some cultures, you may experience being in the minority (i.e. foreigner) or in the majority for the first time. How the "majority culture" defines itself also differs around the world; understanding how these perceptions influence your education abroad experience can help you better understand yourself and the new host culture. Before committing to a program we encourage you to consider different international perspectives in relation to identity, what to prepare for, and what you should research in order to successfully learn in a new culture and community.

In our effort to make studying abroad more accessible and relevant than ever, we encourage you to explore the links and resources provided.

Race And Ethnicity Abroad

Religion Abroad 

Gender Abroad 

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Abroad

Non-Traditional Students Abroad

Ability Abroad 

First Generation Students Abroad