LGBTQ

Overview

Throughout college, many of us are young and trying to figure out our identity. We may be asking who we are in the world, how we experience the world, and relate to others. Sexuality and gender is one aspect of “identity” that many young college students explore. Who are we attracted to? Does my body fit with my feelings about who I am? Am I ready to be who I am openly in the world? These can be some challenging, exciting or confusing things to think about. If you are a mature student returning to college who identifies as LGTBQ, you can be of support for the younger student struggling with their identity.

College climate plays a very important role in the identity of most college students. This is true for students who identify as LGBTQ – that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer or Questioning. Is this you or someone you know and care about and you want some more information, resources and support? Read on.

There is something to note here. Most students report that they experience feelings of belonging, safety and inclusion in college. This should be the experience of all students who hold an LGBTQ identity too, but that is not always the case. Some students who identify as LGBTQ report experiencing harassment and discrimination in college, while some people find it hard to know how to relate to someone that is different from them. No matter the case, harassment is not acceptable and should be reported. Have a trusted college community member help you do this. Look for a “SafeZone” decal on a window or doorway. This is a person who supports the LGBTQ+ community.

See what happens when you try to guess sexual orientation.....lessons learned.

The information in these modules is not intended to replace the services and advice from a medical or mental health professional.