Native American Students
Native American Students
The Native American experience is diverse. Individuals within this identity group will have different experiences abroad depending on their intersecting identities, home and host country, and other factors.
Before leaving, reflect on what your Native American identity means to you and how it shapes you as an individual.
Know that you do not have to represent your entire identity group, and that conversations about your race and ethnicity can open up meaningful dialogue about the complexities and nuances of the Native American identity.
While Abroad
While the Native American experience abroad can vary greatly, there are a few things that students in the Native American community often face.
These include:
- Mistaken identity
- Assumptions that all Native students share the same identity or are from one region or country
- Assumptions that you are not from the country you grew up in
- Questioning your Native identity
- Stereotypes (both positive and negative) based on appearance/culture
- Microaggressions or unwanted public attention
- Fetisizaton
Being aware that these can occur can help you better prepare for your time abroad. While many may seem negative, it often opens up opportunities for conversation, learning, and growth.