If you are a minority student in your host country (for example, African American in London, or European American in China), you may experience additional anxiety as you try to adapt socially and academically to your new culture. Some students may face special challenges. Students may experience racial bias, prejudice, and discrimination because they belong to a visible ethnic or racial minority. Students should accept that there may not be many other persons of your race or ethnicity where they are living. Outside their traditional comfort zone students may feel especially isolated. It is important to understand that race and ethnicity will affect a students overseas experience and, at times, may be quite challenging. Students may find that confronting and coping with these issues abroad is not necessarily an entirely negative experience; in fact, it presents a unique learning opportunity which may serve well in future.
Educators see profound and lasting educational value in exposing students to cross-cultural differences, even those they may find offensive (assuming, of course, that student safety is not compromised). The encounter with cultural "otherness," particularly when we ourselves are put in the position of the "other," is always a potential opportunity to enlarge our understanding of human limits and possibilities. People discover what they take for granted about themselves as individuals and as a people. The process ultimately contributes to better social analysis and problem-solving abilities. The student who witnesses racism or other forms of discrimination in another cultural context, for instance, learns how others make sense of and deal with the condition. Such newly acquired knowledge may have useful applications back in the U.S. Because it enhances self-awareness and undermines prejudice, the process also fosters personal growth-students develop greater tolerance and compassion and a more sophisticated approach to identity issues in general.
In order to reduce anxiety and apprehension, students should research where they will be living. Students should think of ways they can bridge the gap with others by using their language and coping skills. Students should not be afraid to ask for help or reach out for support. The Program Director and other students can be of great assistance, matter what their race. Students who are concerned about these issues should visit the OIP and/or the UM International Center before their departure to talk with a Student Peer Advisors. Students may wish to read the Students of Color Abroad Questionnaires OIP has collected from past participants. Students should try to speak to other students of similar background who have lived overseas to learn about their experiences. The International Center has a flyer called Americans of Color Abroad which may also be helpful.
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