Supporting LGBT International Students

A 2013 survey from Pew Research Center showed that the median age lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals “come out” is 20, an age that falls squarely within those college years. More and more colleges are providing services such as LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) resource centers in order to support these students and help them find community. According to the Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals, there are around 200 LGBT student centers nationwide, and the number is growing. For LGBT international students coming to the United States from cultures where exploration of one’s sexuality or gender identity is discouraged or unsafe, this opportunity to develop and explore in a supportive environment can be revolutionary. This report argues that the importance of understanding these challenges is crucial to providing better services for all students.