"I wanted to study abroad in London because I had heard it was very culturally diverse. Having grown up in one of the most diverse cities in the world, Toronto, I had high expectations. London exceeded those expectations by far. From the food to the different tongues you’d hear on the street, for the first time in my life I did not feel like a minority as a racially and ethnically diverse student."
"As an Asian American going to Prague, Czechia, which is predominantly white, I was unsure of what to expect. However, during my semester abroad, I was able to find an amazing community and feel welcomed as I immersed myself into the culture."
"One of the things I cherish most about studying abroad is the fact that, in all the countries I've visited, my skin color has become insignificant.I had the opportunity to perceive myself without the constraints of racial preconceptions and biases, and that worked wonders for my personal and professional development."
"Coming from a place where there is not much diversity, being in Australia opened my eyes to how much diversity the world has to offer. I was incredibly excited to have the opportunity to meet and become friends with students from India, Italy, Argentina, Malaysia, Ireland and more. I believe we all have so much to share and learn from each other, and my friendships abroad highlight this."
Use this page to explore how your race and ethnicity can present opportunities, challenges, and unexpected interactions while traveling abroad.
As you consider and prepare for an international experience, use the following questions as a guide. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and you may relate to multiple identities. You are encouraged to discuss these topics in person with an education abroad advisor in your school or college. The Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA) can also provide guidance and resources as you prepare for your experience.
RESOURCE
Download the Race & Ethnicity Abroad flyer for additional questions and considerations for traveling abroad. Bring this resource with you when meeting with an academic advisor, education abroad advisor, or other U-M office.
Take a deeper dive into issues of race and ethnicity in international travel by exploring the following resources:
Navigating race and ethnicity abroad may feel similar to your experience in the U.S., completely different, or a mix of both. You might experience a stronger sense of community, encounter stereotypes, microaggressions, or racism, or notice that your nationality takes precedence in how others see you. It is also common for students to be identified first by nationality, such as being seen as American, regardless of race or ethnicity.
Preparing ahead of time can help you feel more confident and reduce surprises. Consider talking with an education abroad advisor about what to expect in your destination, review destination-specific reports on the Country Risk Rating page, and connect with MESA for additional guidance and support. If possible, talk with students of similar racial or ethnic backgrounds who have traveled to your destination, since peer insights can be a helpful way to learn about day to day dynamics and strategies for navigating identity in a new context.
Studying abroad can strengthen skills that support your future goals, such as communicating across cultures, adapting to new environments, and building relationships across differences. It can also help you gain perspective on how your host destination approaches topics connected to your academic interests and career path.
If you are a first time traveler, it is normal for family or supporters to have questions about health, safety, finances, and support on the ground. Consider talking early in the process and sharing what you learn. Education abroad advisors can help you and your family think through questions before you depart. U-M Managed Programs are vetted by departments, units, or colleges, and programs often have support resources in place during travel. U-M offers travel abroad health insurance for students traveling internationally, and many programs work with partners who can assist on site. If your program is faculty led, you may also be traveling with a U-M faculty member and a structured plan for coursework and excursions.
