Tips for LGBTQIA+ Students in Thinking about the College Search
In light of the recent conservative reactions to progressive campus policies, it is critically important for LGBTQIA+ students to attend safe colleges where they can flourish both on and off campus. Indeed, not that long ago some of my former students questioned expressing their identities with college admissions offices, nervous about either rejection or their parents’ discovering the truth. Particularly with regard to college admissions, the world has changed a great deal. Most of my high school students have become much more comfortable coming out. Recently, however, with many states rolling back LGBTQI protections, some are understandably nervous about leaving the region for college.
Here are some considerations (and websites) that I suggest that students consider in determining whether the campus is LGBTQI friendly:
Definitely begin by checking out the Campus Pride website (https://www.campuspride.org ). This non-profit organization founded in 2001 offers a great deal in terms of helping students assess LGBTQI-friendly campuses. I suggest that students explore the Campus Pride Index—for example, both UCONN and Connecticut College each receive 4.5 stars. Unfortunately, the site doesn’t list every college in each state. Campus Pride also used to host a national college fair in various cities across the country; however, COVID put the fair on pause for a few years.
There are many other ways to gauge a campus’ dedication to LGBTQI support:
Princeton Review provides a list of LGBTQI-Friendly campuses: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings?rankings=lgbtq-friendly
Explore each college’s website to determine how many clubs are dedicated to LGBTQI groups. How many students belong to these clubs?
Reach out to admissions representatives to ask about LGBTQI policies. Ask also to speak with student representatives for a fair assessment of campus policies.
Visit the campus while it’s in session—Take a look at the school culture. Is it progressive? Would you feel comfortable on campus?
Are there rainbow flags hanging anywhere? Are there visual signs of support on campus? Check out kiosks to explore weekend events.
How comfortable are students, faculty, and administrators in being out? Are there LGBTQI allies?
Explore options for housing. Does the college offer gender-neutral restrooms or gender-inclusive dorms? (https://www.campuspride.org/tpc/gender-inclusive-housing/)
Does the campus offer any LGBTQI support services? What about health insurance to support a student’s decision to transition?
Check out majors on campus. Can a student major in Gender and Sexuality Studies?
These are strong considerations that a college will be LGBTQI-friendly! I wish all students good luck with their search!