LGBTQ+ Inclusive: Finding the Campus for You
The path to life after high school isn’t one size fits all. It looks different for everyone, and students are seeking quality guidance that speaks to their unique backgrounds and experiences.??
This month, we created a space that reflects today’s diverse Gen Z student population where roughly 21% of Gen Z identify as LGBTQ+ and ensures more students can see themselves in the college and career planning process.??
The new For LGBTQ+ Students Hub, launched in partnership with Campus Pride, recognizes that many students, especially students who identify as LGBTQ+, want to find a campus where they feel welcome, safe, and comfortable being themselves. We dug into this topic on October 11 during the BigFuture Live Community Nights series, six virtual events where students and families can ask college and career questions that reflect their unique lens.??
The first event, Finding the School for You: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Campuses, featured Campus Pride Founder Shane Windmeyer (They/Them, He/Him/His), Southern Methodist University Women & LGBTQ Center Director Nathan Faust (he/him), University of Virginia graduate Chloe Zehfuss (she/her), Kansas State University Diversity and Multicultural Student Affairs Coordinator Brandon Haddock (he/him), and Duke University student Angela Capawana (she/they) answering student’s questions on one main topic: Finding a school where you can be YOU.??
It isn’t always clear what an institution has to offer LGBTQ+ students. You can explore colleges’ policies or use Campus Pride that offers an indicator of institutional commitment to LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices. But finding the answer doesn’t have only be a deep dive online. Reach out to the student life offices to alleviate concerns and curiosities. As Brandon Haddock shared, “I have yet to encounter a higher ed administrator or professional that is unwilling to have a conversation with a parent or student to make reassurances.”??
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Understanding an institution’s policies is often the first step. Existing policies can help students and families better understand what the actual climate is like. Ideally, policies are affirming, explicit, and accessible to those seeking the information. As important, is factoring in affordability when relevant, like with housing. As Shane Windmeyer stated “What you don’t see can send a message too” which reinforces the value in calling an institution to learn more and/or connecting with current students who can answer any questions.??
When exploring colleges, it’s important for students to identify their priorities and what is non-negotiable for their experience. Maybe they create a pros and cons list, or jot down questions they want answered. At the core of the process is keeping an open mind and seeking a community that can provide a solid support system. As Nathan Faust noted “College is a new environment and can be a great place to do self-reflection and exploration. Do it at your own pace. There is no right path or correct way.”?
The free Community Nights series is co-sponsored by College Board’s staff affinity groups and will continue through November 2023.