Global Majority Students Abroad

According to the Institute of International Education Open Doors Report, almost 30% of students who travel abroad as a part of their undergraduate experience identify as a part of the Global Majority. At Ohio Wesleyan University, we define the Global Majority as Black, Indigenous, Brown, and Latinx people, Pacific Islander, Arab, Middle Eastern, North African, Southeast Asian, South Asian, East Asian, African, biracial, and multiracial people who are mixed with one or more of the above, and other people and groups who cannot access white privilege. This page is to support students from the Global Majority as they explore and prepare for international educational opportunities.

Questions to Think About*

  • How is my race/ethnicity perceived in my host country? Are there stereotypes associated with my race/ethnicity?
  • Does my host country have a history of prejudice/discrimination or acceptance/inclusion with my ethnic group?
  • Am I going to be treated the same way in my host country as I am in the US? Will I be in the minority/majority for the first time?
  • Is there a history of ethnic or racial tension in the country? If so, is the situation currently hostile to members of a minority race, majority race, or particular ethnicity or religion?
  • Are there laws in the host country governing race relations? Ethnic relations? What protections are offered to ethnic or racial minorities?
  • How will my personal racial or ethnic identity shape my experience abroad?
  • How will I react if I encounter racism or other discriminatory behavior?
  • How will I feel if I am the only Global Majority person in a cohort of other Americans in my program?

Helpful Resources:

*From Georgetown University Abroad office