For most students, study abroad is a life changing experience. However, you may encounter some discrimination on your travels. For some students when they study abroad, it will be the first time they will be in the position of being a minority.
Although you may be a minority in your host country, you may receive additional attention depending on your background and ethnicity, which may or may not be discrimination. People might judge you based on your ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Whatever happens, don't let the possibility of discrimination prevent you from experiencing the life changing benefits of living abroad.
At the same time, it is to your advantage to adapt to your host country with cross-cultural sensitivity.
Specific information for women travelers, students of multicultural backgrounds, travelers with accessibility needs and LGBTQ travelers will need to further research on their host country.
DACA Information: Currently, California State University Bakersfield strongly advises DACA students against studying abroad or leaving the US, including US territories such as Puerto Rico and Guam. Please consult with Claudia Catota at ccatota@csub.edu as well as with an immigration attorney for more information.
Parents: Thank you for supporting CSUB Study Abroad. Though it can be a difficult decision, it is also an amazing opportunity where your student can find academic excellence, personal growth, as well as professional skills that will prepare your student towards success at CSUB and beyond. All students are encouraged to consult with the Center for Global Outreach and we make every effort to make sure your student is prepared for their studies abroad in a safe and welcoming environment.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): If you wish to discuss with the Center for Global Outreach on a student's behalf, we would need written permission from the student as outlined in the FERPA document included in the Study Abroad application. For additional information on FERPA, please click here.
For Emergency Assistance: If you need to contact your student because of an emergency, please contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate of the country your student is currently at. Please click here for more information.