Global Education

Diversity and Identity

Generally speaking, students know how their personal identity works at Ohio State. What students may not know is how their identity will be understood or accepted in a new context, and it should not be assumed that circumstances will be the same as on campus.

Before you head off to study, no matter where you are going, try to understand how you are likely to be viewed by the local people and what their past experiences with people who share a similar identity as you.

In some cases, same-sex relationships are not recognized, and are criminalized. Even if your relationship is legally recognized in the US, this may not be the case abroad. Disclosing your identity is a very personal decision and may not always be safe.

To learn more, visit Diversity and Identity, as well as the U.S. Department of State website, which has a number of resources for LGBTI, women, faith-based travelers and travelers with disabilities.