The University of California values diversity in its students, faculty, and staff and is committed to non-discrimination. UC Davis Study abroad program and scholarship decisions are not made on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, or disabling condition.

As in the United States, some societies and groups abroad are more open to accepting diversity than others. People react differently to appearances and behaviors they are not accustomed to or that may appear unusual to them. You may find that a number of factors may influence your treatment abroad, including your nationality; religious, racial or ethnic heritage; gender; sexual orientation or physical abilities. Your individual personality may come second to these identifiers to some members of your host culture.

Attitudes toward women and minority groups vary greatly among cultures. Consider that even if you are not in the minority at home, you might be in your host culture. Reports from students of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds are varied, from those who felt exhilarated by being free of the U.S. American context of race relations, to those who experienced different degrees of curiosity about their ethnicity. You may have to deal with the possibility of outright racism or sexism abroad, the possibility of insensitive attitudes and inadequate facilities for students with disabilities, or the presence of homophobia towards gay and lesbian students.

While this may be difficult to deal with at times, educating yourself on the host culture and your own culture, and thinking through the many scenarios you might encounter will better prepare you to deal with life abroad and have a rewarding experience.

The Education Abroad Center has developed this website with various populations in mind. Use the menu on this page to access information and resources that should be helpful. Students who are concerned about possible issues they may face while abroad should speak to their advisor.