Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

ASA is committed to diversifying education abroad. In keeping with the values of diversity, equity and inclusion, we want to help all students, from the broadest range of backgrounds, have the opportunity to study abroad.

To help you get there, ASA offers a Diversity Scholarship of up to $2,000 per semester program and $1,000 per summer program – you can read more about it on our Scholarships & Financial Aid page.

Below are some resources we have compiled to help you prepare for your experience!

 

+ First Generation

You are the first in your family to go to college, and now we want you to think about possibly being the first in your family to study abroad! Yes, there will be challenges, but ASA is here to help you 100% of the way. We have US-based Programs Advisors to help you navigate applications, scholarships, financial aid, passports, etc. everything prior to departure. Once you are abroad, ASA’s Resident Directors will help you to navigate your new Host country with orientation, excursions, housing, any emergencies that may arise, etc. If you need any help with additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

Benefits of study abroad:

  • Expand your studies while earning academic credits: Earn academic credits for your major and broaden your understanding of any given field or topic.
  • Travel is a benefit in itself: You will have the opportunity to learn about yourself and your home country in a new context while developing your self-confidence and independence in a new setting.
  • Learn another language: While it is not necessary to have language studies prior to or during a study abroad experience, learning multiple languages changes how you see the world and will open more doors for you in the future.
  • Career and resume boost: International experience on your resume makes you stand out among hundreds of applicants.
  • Make your family proud: Going to college is a huge step for you and your family, make them even more proud as you venture out into the world and keep building a life and career.

Resources:

+ Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Depending on where you go, you may be redefining what an American is for our international counterparts. Before you depart, think about what it is going to be like to be "you" abroad, the various ways you might identify yourself, and how these identities define you in the U.S. These definitions might change in your host country, and you may encounter stereotypes, questions, and curiosity surrounding your identities. While you may face challenges, remember that being in a new cultural context is a wonderful opportunity for change and growth — and it will provide you with a new perspective on the structure of different societies. Diverse representation is vital in creating stronger global citizenship within the U.S. and the world at large.

We know that an international experience will be transformational, and all of us here at ASA are committed to helping all students achieve their study abroad goals. We encourage you to speak with ASA and your study abroad adviser at your home institution, as well as consult the links below to prepare for your time abroad.

If you need any help with additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

Resources:

+ LGBTQ+

In order to have a positive, successful experience abroad, it’s always best to learn as much as you can about your host country before arriving. For LGBTQ+ students, it is also important to be aware of the cultural, legal and social issues regarding sexual orientation and gender identity abroad and how they could affect interactions with people in your host country.

In order to have a rewarding and safe experience, you will benefit from researching the LGBTQ+ climate of your host country. Educate yourself about specific laws pertaining to sexual behavior, orientation and/or gender expression. All of ASA’s program host countries respect the rights of LGBTQ+ people. However, some countries nearby still have laws criminalizing same-sex relations. Please research this before doing any independent travel. If you need any help with additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

Resources:

+ High Financial Need

ASA understands that financial need is an important factor in studying abroad, and we are here to help you navigate how to make your dream a reality. We support our students and parents by providing scholarships and payment plans. We train our staff to identify financial need early on so they may begin to assist students with aid from the start of the process, all the while offering our programs at the highest quality. If you want more information about our payment plans, please let us know by emailing hello@academicstudies.com or calling 617-327-9388.

Traveling and living abroad can be financially challenging, but it’s not impossible! In most cases, you may be able to apply your financial aid package to study abroad. In addition, there are a number of funding opportunities available to you, including scholarships and grants. Planning ahead is the key to study abroad and that is especially true for students with high financial need. If you need any help with additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com.

Resources:

+ Mental Health

Many people suffer from one or more mental health issues. Living abroad can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to mental health, due to culture shock, travel stress, change and transition, separation from your support system at home, etc. But you are not on your own! Countless students with mental health issues choose to embark on study abroad programs and have successful and rewarding experiences! ASA has not only compiled resources on mental and physical health and self-care, but we also have dedicated, knowledgeable staff available for you both prior to departure and once you are in your host country. Understanding and sensitivity to your needs are at the core of ASA's approach. Prior to departure, ASA advisors will help you develop a proactive plan to manage your health abroad, find out whether any necessary prescriptions are legal and available in countries where you are traveling, and help arrange continuing care, if needed, while abroad.

Once you are abroad, you will have an approachable and understanding Site Director available for you if you have any questions or concerns. Your Site Director is there to assist and support you! In addition, we can connect you with English-speaking health professionals who can assist you. If you have any questions or need any help with additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

Resources:

+ Disabilities

Students with mobility issues, learning disabilities, and mental illness study abroad with us every year. The #1 most important thing is that you communicate with ASA about what accommodations you'll need, as early in the process as possible - ideally during the process of selecting a program. If we know what your needs are, we can work with you one-on-one. Our knowledgeable advising staff knows our program cities and host institutions well and can personally advise you on what accommodations are available in the location(s) you're interested in going to. Once you're abroad, our Site Directors will be available to offer extra support and work closely with individual students and the overseas institutions they are attending to ensure the best possible experience.

Many accommodations require early planning, and requests for accommodations that are made as early as possible (preferably while you are selecting or applying to the program) will enable us to better assist you. You should be aware that the full level of accessibility, services, and accommodation to which you have access at your home campus may not be available at the program site and host universities. Other countries may provide access and accommodations in different ways. Please contact us so we can begin a conversation and help you find the ideal program location for you! If you have any questions about what accommodations are offered in which programs, please don’t hesitate to contact hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

Resources:

+ religious and spiritual diversity

Studying abroad offers you the unique opportunity to explore world religions and the roles they play in different cultures. Whether you regularly practice a certain religion, consider yourself to be spiritual, or neither, you will likely encounter deeply rooted religious belief systems of your host country. It is a good idea to research religion in your host country before you go abroad and understand the majority religion being practiced, especially if it is one you are largely unfamiliar with.

The level of commitment to religious diversity and freedom can vary by country. It is important to research and understand the religious and spiritual beliefs of your host country. Spending time in a country where the major religion is different from your own can lead to a better understanding of your own notions of spirituality. Additionally, you may wish to connect with a religious community abroad to further your cultural immersion or find a source of support during your time abroad.

Before you depart, if you have any concerns or questions about religion and spirituality as they relate to your experience abroad please don't hesitate to contact ASA staff in the U.S. Once you're abroad, your ASA Site Director will be able to connect you with a religious community or other resources in order to feel supported during your journey. Feel free to email us at hello@academicstudies.com or call 617-327-9388.

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