Study abroad with the College of Staten Island - OPEN TO CUNY AND NON-CUNY STUDENTS
Study Abroad Fair - Spring 2026
- Thursday, Feb 5, 12 - 3 pm, 1P Atrium
Study abroad programs:
Ready to apply?
- Click to start your study abroad application!
Want to learn more?
- Join a Study Abroad Info Session - Our Study Abroad Info Sessions are held most Tuesdays during the term at 2:30 pm in our office
- Meet with an advisor - Make an appointment on-line or visit us in person during walk-in hours M-Th 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Contact Information
Study abroad program catalog
The office is open Monday - Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Study Abroad walk-in hours are Monday - Thursday
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
麻豆视频 (CSI) offers a wide range of study abroad and exchange programs. All of our study abroad programs enable you to explore both the traditions and the modern realities of the world from another perspective.
CSI's programs are open to all students at CSI, CUNY, and at other colleges and universities in the U.S. CSI is also a proud founding member of the College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS) offering programs throughout the world.
See our study abroad program catalog.
Explore our Programs
Donate today!
Dorothy Ann Helm Memorial Scholarship
Dorothy Ann Helm (1946-2020)
Dorothy Ann Helm, or Ann, as she was best known, was the esteemed and beloved Executive Director of the Center for International Service at the College of Staten Island from 1990-2013, where she created many innovative international programs for CSI and The City University of New York with a multitude of international partners.
Ann's passion for exploring the world was ignited while she was an undergraduate at Lewis and Clark College. She experienced a life-changing study abroad year in Japan that led her to pursue a career in international education.
In appreciation for Ann's distinguished career and passionate commitment that opened up a world of life-changing study abroad for countless students, we invite you to honor her legacy for the generations to come. Your gift, in any amount, is most welcome and will help to establish a memorial scholarship in her name.
Donate here:
Support the Center for Global Engagement Development Fund
The CSI Center for Global Engagement Development Fund is used to create and support new initiatives that enhance the College鈥檚 international opportunities for students, faculty, and scholars engaging in global activities. In the past, programs and ideas that have been supported by CGE funds include:
- The development of study abroad programs in Cuba, France, Korea, and Peru
- The creation of the Peace Corps Prep Program for undergraduate students
- Faculty research in Germany, Italy, and China
- New programing to improve Fulbright opportunities at the College
- Curricular reforms that enhance global dimensions in the classroom
- Faculty grants for travel and teaching abroad
Donate here:
Study abroad programs
Study abroad programs (overseas tuition fee) and exchange programs (no overseas tuition fee):
- Australia
- Melbourne - University of Melbourne:
- Newcastle - University of Newcastle-
- Sydney - Macquarie University -
- China
- Hong Kong - City University of Hong Kong (Exchange):
- Shanghai - Shanghai University: |
- Czech Republic
- Prague - University of New York in Prague: | |
- Denmark
- Copenhagen - Business Academy Copenhagen (Exchange):
- Ecuador
- Galapagos Islands - Universidad San Francisco de Quito:
- Guayaquil - Universidad Cat贸lica de Santiago de Guayaquil:
- Quito - Universidad San Francisco de Quito: |
- France
- Aix-en-Provence - American College of the Mediterranean (IAU): |
- Annecy - IFALPES (French language learning): |
- Nice or Paris - IPAG (Exchange):
- Paris - Film & Filmmaking (Faculty-led):
- Rouen (Normandy) - French Language Immersion (Faculty-led):
- Greece
- Thessaloniki - American College of Thessaloniki: |
- Multi-country - IAU Winter Traveling Seminars -
- France/Italy/Spain - Wine, Gastronomy & Sustainability of the Mediterranean
- France/Spain/Morocco - Europe & the Islamic World
- France/The Netherlands/Morocco - Diplomacy & Human Rights in the Mediterranean
- France/The Netherlands/Czech Republic/Italy) - Great Cities
- Greece/Italy - Mediterranean Basin
- United Kingdom - Theatre Alive - Studies in Theatre, Drama & Performance
- Ireland
- Dublin - Technological University Dublin (Exchange):
- Dublin - University College Dublin:
- Maynooth - Maynooth University: |
- Israel
- Haifa - University of Haifa:
- Italy
- Arcavacata (Calabria) - University of Calabria (Exchange):
- Bologna - University of Bologna (Exchange):
- Florence - Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM): | | | |
- Florence & Tuscania (Two Italies) - Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM):
- Rome - American University of Rome: |
- Tuscania - Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM): |
- Venice - Istituto Venezia (Italian language learning): |
- Japan
- Beppu - Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (Exchange):
- Fukuoka - Seinan Gakuin University (Exchange):
- Kyoto - Ritsumeikan University (Japanese language learning):
- Tokyo - Chuo University (Exchange):
- Tokyo - Meiji University (Exchange):
- Morocco
- Tangier, Fes, or Marrakesh - Medical Internship:
- New Zealand
- Auckland, Manawat奴, or Wellington - Massey University:
- Peru
- Cusco - Latin American Culture, Politics, and Society (Faculty-led):
- Spain
- Barcelona - American College of the Mediterranean (IAU): |
- Madrid - American College of the Mediterranean (IAU): |
- Santander - Universidad Menendez Pelayo Santander (Spanish language learning & Literature):
- Seville - International College of Seville: |
- Taiwan
- Taichung - Medical Internship (Faculty-led):
- Taichung - Sustainability and the Impact of Climate Change (Faculty-led):
- United Kingdom
- Belfast - Queen's University Belfast: | |
- Liverpool - John Moores Liverpool University (Exchange):
- London - Literature, Art, and Culture (Faculty-led):
- London - Foundation for International Education (FIE): |
Steps to Studying Abroad
1) Start your search! Dream about your favorite destinations!
2) Need more options?
- Search
- Search
3) Still not sure? Try these tips:
- As yourself what kind of experience do I want? Create the experience you hope to have by thinking about the following: What would you like to study? Where - what countries or regions? Would you like to learn or practice a foreign language, or take courses taught in English? Do you want to go abroad for a few weeks, a semester, or an academic year? Would you like to interact more with local people or with other American students? Are you interested in a program that offers a lot of support or would you like to be independent while abroad? Remember that you can go abroad more than once prior to graduation and build on your previous experiences.
- Attend a Study Abroad Fair! The Center for Global Engagement hosts Study Abroad Fairs every September and February. Fairs enable you to speak with sponsors of CSI, CUNY, and outside Study Abroad Programs providers, and to speak with past participants. See the for exact dates and locations of the next .
- Attend a Study Abroad Info Session. General information sessions are held most Tuesdays at 2:30 pm during the fall and spring terms. See the for exact dates and locations.
4) Note the Timeline for Study Abroad. Like everything else in life, studying abroad takes planning. Keep in mind these CSI study abroad application deadlines:
October 15 鈥 January Winter Intersession & Spring programs
March 15 鈥 Summer, Fall, & Academic Year programs
And use this countdown to study abroad:
- 12 - 6 months prior to the start of a program: Attend a study abroad information session. Set an appointment with a study abroad advisor.
- 12 - 5 months prior: Research program options and talk with an academic adviser. Apply for or renew your passport.
- 12 - 5 months prior: Apply for scholarships and financial aid.
- 6 - 4 months prior: Choose a program and apply.
- 5 - 3 months prior: Complete and submit the post-acceptance material. Apply for a visa, if applicable.
- 2 months prior: Pay program tuition and fees. Check in with the Financial Aid Office.
- 1 month prior: Pack, prepare, and enjoy!
5) Schedule a Study Abroad advising appointment. To schedule a Study Abroad Advising appointment, email studyab@csi.cuny.edu and we'll set one up for you.
6) Click the button anywhere on this page to get started!
Still stuck? More ideas to help you get started:
- Read alumni stories on our Dolphins across the Seven Seas - Study Abroad Blog -
- Discuss your ideas with an Academic Advisor at CSI - Once you have narrowed down your choices to a program or two, meet with your academic advisor or your major advisor to identify the courses you wish to take abroad that will fit your personal and academic goals. To give you the most freedom of choosing a program, you can plan to take only free elective credit abroad, though by limiting your search you can earn credit in your major or minor, to fulfill General Education requirements, pluralism and diversity, TALA, foreign language requirements, etc. Along with your advisor, map out your course work to stay on track to graduate.
- Get a Passport. Once you have it, you'll want to use it! Learn more and apply for a passport at the
- Browse our site!
Why Study Abroad?
Here are some key benefits you will gain by studying abroad!
- You'll Get to Travel the Globe
- You'll Expand Your Worldview
- You鈥檒l earn credit on your CSI transcript and in most cases your grades will figure into your cumulative GPA
- You'll Impress Future Employers 鈥 build a global transcript and resume and experiences
- You Might Learn a Foreign Language
- You'll Learn How to Communicate with All Types of People
- You Can Give Real-Life Context to Your Classroom Learning
- You'll Make Lifelong Friends
- You'll Gain Confidence and a Sense of Self-Reliance
- You'll Become a Global Citizen
Ready? Explore our programs .
Scholarships
DONATE TODAY: Dorothy Ann Helm Memorial Scholarship for study abroad students:
Financing your Study Abroad Experience with Scholarships!
Finding ways to fund your program abroad can seem like a challenge. One worth taking! Although it will take some work, you should follow our guide below to look at some of the resources available to you. Take action now and you鈥檒l be eligible for more scholarships than you鈥檇 imagine.
Step 1: Start thinking about who you are and what you want from a study abroad program!
Step 2: Visit Fellowships & Scholarships, open the link to the Fellowship & Scholarship Database, and make an appointment with Michele Callahan, CSI Fellowship and Scholarship Advisor, 718.982.2332, michele.callahan@csi.cuny.edu .
Step 3: Apply to a CSI Study Abroad program - you can apply for scholarships as part of the application process!
Step 4: Check out these resources on scholarships open to students.
- Read the for information on study abroad and
- Fund for Education Abroad - or
- NAFSA U.S. Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants -
- Studyabroad.com -
- Go Overseas Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships
- IIE Scholarship Search Engine -
- IIE -
- Study Abroad Scholarships at Fastweb -
- College Board -
- The Scholarship Coach - US News -
- Study Abroad Scholarships -
- CIEE -
- DAAD -
- Max Kade Foundation -
- NOIAW Scholarship Program for Italy |
- Kosciuszko Foundation Year Abroad in Poland Scholarship -
- LGBTQ+: Rainbow Scholarship -
- Diversity and Inclusion LGBTQ+ scholarships -
- Gilman Scholarships -
- Critical Language Scholarship Program -
- Boren Scholarship/Fellowship -
Diversity Abroad | - -
- Hosteling International - and
- Kahal -
- Christianson Grant -
- Asia Pacific Academic Scholarship -
- Freeman-ASIA -
- The Toshizo Watanabe Study Abroad Scholarship Program -
- Study Abroad in Japan: Bridging Scholarships -
- Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho) Scholarships -
- Tortuga Backpacks -
- GoOverseas.com to study in IRELAND -
Affiliated Programs
麻豆视频, CUNY is a member of the College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS) whose mission is to provide a broad spectrum of quality international education opportunities abroad. CSI shares the CCIS vision of commitment to expanding opportunities for students to participate in high quality and affordable international education study abroad programs in diverse locations. The Center for Global Engagement at CSI shares the CCIS core values of excellence, affordability, accountability, participation, service, support, safety, advocacy, transparency and diversity.
For more information on these programs open to CSI students, please visit .
- CCIS Study Abroad Fair on Thu, Sep 30, 2025, 12-3 pm EST
- Zoom:
College of Staten Island students may apply for participation in a range of programs administered by other CUNY campuses. Most of these programs are offered during the January winter session and summer sessions, while some semester programs are also available. CSI students would apply directly to the host CUNY college for admission in the program, but must also complete a 鈥2-page application form鈥 and ultimately additional paperwork for course approval to register via the CUNY e-permit system with the Center for Global Engagement.
For more information on other CUNY programs open to CSI students, please visit .
If you are interested in a program that is not run through a CUNY campus or a CCIS member school, please email StudyAB@csi.cuny.edu and a study abroad advisor will guide you!
Resources for Diversity & Inclusion Abroad
Resources for Diversity and Inclusion Abroad
The Center for Global Engagement at CSI is committed to nondiscrimination, diversity, and inclusion to support you and all students (and faculty and staff) through our services, activities, and programs. In that spirit of inclusive excellence, we share here information and resources that can be useful for you and all students (and faculty and staff) when learning about global culture and travel and when participating in study abroad programs. Please read about:
- First Generation College Students Abroad
- Women Abroad
- LGBTQ+ Abroad
- Race and Ethnicity Abroad
- Ability and Accessibility Abroad
- Heritage Seekers (going abroad to ancestral homelands)
- Jewish Students Abroad
- Religion and Spirituality Abroad
- SIT's Diversity Resources by Global Region.
There are many reasons to study abroad: expand your horizons, gain a global perspective on your major and studies, build a global resume that will help you throughout your academic and professional career, learn first-hand about a culture, people, and their language, have life changing and life affirming experiences that you will treasure your entire life, and more...
With these resources and some preparation, we hope we can help you build a rewarding study abroad experience into your college degree. We encourage you to reach out to us and start exploring where and when you might study abroad.
Please feel free to contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. We can advise you in-person at CSI or advise you via Zoom virtually.
NOTE: These Diversity and Inclusion sections, draw on study abroad resources at CSI and CUNY, and also NAFSA: The Association of International Educators, the School for International Training, Michigan State University, UC Santa Cruz, George Washington University, University of Washington, among other schools, and third party providers of study abroad programs.
First Generation College Students Abroad
First Generation College Students Abroad
As one of the first in your family to attend college, you may never have considered going abroad or you may have believed that the process would be too daunting. You should know that your path to college and your experiences at CSI have already given you many skills that will help you on your study abroad journey. The Center for Global Engagement is here to guide you along the way and answer any questions you may have. We encourage you to reach out and set an appointment with a Study Abroad Advisor to learn about your options.
Here are some additional resources:
- 鈥 GoAbroad
- - Know Without Borders
Women Abroad
Women Abroad
Women make up the majority of U.S. college study abroad students, accounting for up to 65+% of U.S. students abroad annually. Though many women have successful experiences abroad each year, women travelers may face greater obstacles when traveling due to differences in their host country鈥檚 cultural values, attitudes, and behaviors toward women.
It is important to understand your host country's gender norms to help set yourself up for success. Many foreigners' perceptions of American women, especially, are influenced by media portrayals. The way you dress or act abroad can reinforce or detract from these stereotypes. Remember that your dress and body language may be commonplace in the U.S. but, in your future host country, your actions may draw unwanted attention. You may find that cultural norms in the U.S. are more liberal or allow for more informality, than many host countries that may be more conservative or formal, or tradition-bound.
Talk with your Study Abroad Advisor and do research before you go to gain a better understanding of your host country. In preparation for your time abroad, consider some of these safety tips:
- Review your host country鈥檚 women-specific laws. In some countries, women do not have the same rights or may be held accountable even when they are the victim of a crime.
- Maintain situational awareness at all times.
- Understand cultural norms for attire, body language, behavior, and friendship.
- Use the buddy system whenever possible.
Additional resources:
- - Diversity Abroad
- 鈥 U.S. Department of State
- 鈥 A Good resource for health abroad
- 鈥 A study from the Center for Global Education and the SAFETI Clearinghouse
- - Journey Women
- - GoOverseas
LGBTQ+ Resources for Study Abroad
LGBTQ+ Resources for Study Abroad
The Center for Global Engagement at CSI is committed to nondiscrimination, diversity, and inclusion to support you and all students (and faculty and staff) through our services, activities, and programs. In that spirit of inclusive excellence, we share here LGBTQ+ information and resources that can be useful for you and all students (and faculty and staff) when learning about global culture and travel and when participating in study abroad programs.
There are many reasons to study abroad: expand your horizons, gain a global perspective on your major and studies, build a global resume that will help you throughout your academic and professional career, learn first-hand about a culture, people, and their language, have life changing and life affirming experiences that you will treasure your entire life, and more...
Here are at least 鈥 written by a Carleton College student some years ago
Challenges
One of the main challenges all students may face when studying abroad entails adjusting to the cultural norms in each country abroad. Likewise, one of the main challenges LGBTQ+ students may face entails adjusting to the LGBTQ+ cultural norms in each country abroad. Of course, being aware of the legal LGBTQ+ landscape in a country is imperative. Several resources listed below describe the legal and cultural LGBTQ+ climate in other countries.
Some cultures may not recognize LGBTQ+ identities in the same way as we鈥檝e come to in the
U.S. Or perhaps they鈥檒l use different words to describe similar concepts. At times, this may result in a seeming invalidation of U.S. perspectives on LGBTQ+ topics, which can be disheartening for LGBTQ+ students that are likely to have had similar experiences with outright homophobia and transphobia in the U.S.
A more open society will be more progressive about LGBTQ+ rights than a less tolerant society, however students can expect to have more culturally nuanced experiences. , identifying themselves as third-gender, provides a concrete example of how gender identity is approached very differently in another culture.
One unexpected cultural phenomenon some students have experienced has to do with studying abroad in collective societies. Since the U.S. is a very individualistic society, individual expression is valued, whereas in many collective societies, individual expression is more frowned upon. A student with an American cultural background may initially perceive a lack of expressive diversity in the culture, when in reality this expression ties greatly to the collective culture nature of the society. In Asia, for example, there is a great emphasis in the culture on the collective and the group, as opposed to the focus on the individual in the U.S. Similarly, U.S. culture can often generally be seen more informal, when compared to cultures in many
countries across the globe, where traditions, formality, and more rigid societal structures seem to be more fixed and less fluid. Where possible, try to learn about the linguistic and conceptual differences between LGBTQ+ topics in the U.S. and in the culture of your chosen study abroad location.
Studying abroad while transgender or non-binary might present its own challenges, but we encourage you to take the leap. No matter where you are in your transition, experiencing another country and culture can have a huge impact on your life. While studying abroad you will have the space to be yourself and further explore how you identify in the world. There may also be opportunities to connect with other gender diverse people that can give you insight into their unique experiences. With some preparation, trans and non-binary students can have a
life-changing experience. We encourage you to reach out to us and start exploring where you might study abroad.
Safety
Safety concerns for LGBTQ+ students will vary from country to country and city to city. Homophobia and transphobia are not unique to any country, but rates of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals should be factored into your research of programs that interest you. It is important for you to be aware of any legislation restricting gender presentation and/or sexual activity among same-gender individuals in your countries of interest.
The legal status of same-gender marriage and sex are often metrics used to judge the openness of a society. You are encouraged to learn and explore the social climate and local conditions of your chosen country of interest using the recourses links below and to ask questions about LGBTQ+ safety abroad issues with your Study Abroad Advisor. If your Advisor does not know the answers, they will be sure to find resources that can help answer questions and concerns you may have.
According to their website, the ILGA 鈥 the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association 鈥 is the world federation of national and local organizations dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people. The organization offers , in addition to other resources and data, and is a strong resource for up-to-date information.
Preparing for study abroad
- Rather than trying to narrow down a possible program list based on LGBTQ+-friendly locations, consider first looking at all programs and think about and work with your Study Abroad Advisor to decide what experience is best for you, given your goals and expectations
- Onsite staff will provide host-country information to help students acclimate to life abroad. Your Study Abroad Advisor will work with onsite staff to help ensure they have LGBTQ+ knowledge and can provide support, or at least can direct you to resources that
may be available. Some onsite staff may understand the U.S. context that students bring with them.
- Your Study Abroad Advisor most importantly wants to support your wishes. Please let your advisor know whether you would like to be out to colleagues, host families, or students or if you would like to keep your identities private.
- Please let your Study Abroad Advisor know which gender you would prefer to have for roommates where possible. Also, many programs may allow for single-accommodation housing if you so choose.
- Use resource links below to investigate and understand the LGBTQ+ climate of the foreign countries you are considering.
- Feel free to ask questions about this and more to your Study Abroad Advisor
Please contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. See our contact info in the tab.
Resources for LGBTQ+ Study Abroad Students:
- 鈥 Wikipedia
- - International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association
- 鈥 Chapman University
- - University of South Florida
- - links to country-specific resources, including guides for China, Ecuador, France, Japan, Spain, South Korea and more
- - Transgender Law Center
- - U.S. Department of State
- - Considerations before traveling, identities, know about your rights, norms and attitudes, connections, and more
Additional resources:
- - GoAbroad
- - Office for Education Abroad, Michigan State University
- - Human Rights Watch
Travel:
- 鈥 1 minute 22 second video
- - U.S. Department of State
- - National Center for Transgender Equality Passport Guide
- 鈥 a Transgender Travel Guide
- - National Center for Transgender Equality
- - Interactive map of the world that details legal issues related to LGBTQ+ people throughout the world, and much more.
-
鈥 Blog-magazine-style resource with articles, travel tips, destinations, and more.
Using Names and Pronouns:
- - Trans Student.org
- - It's Pronounced Metrosexual
LGBTQ+ student study abroad stories:
鈥 IES Abroad
More stories written by students about LGBTQ+ study abroad are on IFSA-Butler鈥檚 site - .
Specifically,
Scholarships:
- - GoAbroad
- 鈥 A U.S. Department of State scholarship program for students with limited financial means who receive PELL grants, which has been successful in supporting students who have been historically underrepresented in education abroad.
At CSI:
LGBTQ Resource Center Office of Student Life
If you have any questions, please reach out to:
Jeremiah Jurkiewicz (He/Him/His) Jeremiah.Jurkiewicz@csi.cuny.edu
LGBTQ Resource Center/Pluralism & Diversity Coordinator Office of Student Life, College of Staten Island, 1C-226 718-982-3091
Instagram/Twitter: @CSILGBTQ Facebook: CSI LGBTQ Resource Center
Follow Student Life!
Insta:
Twitter:
FB:
CSI Connect:
At CUNY:
Here is a link to a new CUNY resource:
CUNY鈥檚 LGBTQ+I+ Council, a CUNY-wide committee of faculty and staff, also created a one-stop online tool, the Hub, collecting available resources in one centralized location and sending the message that CUNY is a safe environment in which to thrive. The Council鈥檚 mission is to ensure the visibility and inclusion of the entire spectrum of LGBTQ+I+ students, faculty, and staff.
NYC Resources:
The from the Office of NYC Comptroller Scott M. Stringer.
Race and Ethnicity Abroad
Race and Ethnicity Abroad
Study abroad offers you the unique and exciting opportunity to learn about and interact with people of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. In most cases, your interaction with host nationals will be among the most rewarding aspects of your experience abroad.
In some situations, however, your race, ethnicity or other identity anchors may be read or interpreted differently than you are accustomed to in the U.S. You may also encounter different cultural norms related to race and minority status, where racism and other forms of discrimination are performed, viewed, and addressed differently than you are used to.
You may find that your racial or ethnic identity is seen in a new way. Understanding how cultural differences can impact perceptions of race, ethnicity, and identity in an international context is an important component of your preparation to study abroad.
From your hair color to your passport nationality, differences in perceptions about your race, ethnicity, or other identity in the U.S. and in your host culture, may likely affect your experiences. Some students may find themselves in a country where they are part of the majority race or ethnicity for the first time in their life, whereas others may find themselves as the minority for the first time. These interactions and differences in perception could result in a variety of potentially uncomfortable experiences, which may include:
- Additional attention and possible staring
- Fetishization and Objectification
- Questioning from locals about where you鈥檙e from
- Disbelief that you are American or reversely, stereotyping you as American
- Possible discrimination or hurtful comments
- Safety concerns (Note: if you are feeling unsafe while abroad, contact local authorities, your program provider, and/or the Center for Global Engagement)
As preparation for these potential experiences, we encourage you to chat with your study abroad advisors, and other on-campus faculty and advisors. To help facilitate these conversations, we recommend considering some of these questions:
- How might I be perceived in my host country?
- Is it common for students of my race or ethnicity to experience discrimination in the country I鈥檓 studying in? Who can I talk to about it if I do?
- What is the history of ethnic or racial tension in the country? Is the situation currently hostile to members of a minority race, majority race, or particular ethnicity or religion?
- Are issues of racism/ethnic discrimination influenced by immigration in my host country? How do immigration concerns fuel racial tensions at home or in my host country?
- Are there laws in the host country governing race relations? Ethnic relations? What protections are offered to ethnic or racial minorities?
Additional resources:
is a comprehensive site for students interested in diversity issues abroad. The site also provides specific advice for African Americans, Asian and Pacific Islander Americans, Hispanic and Latino Americans and Native Americans.
offers discussion forums, destination guides, student blogs, and a funding directory to assist students of diverse backgrounds.
is a collection of Brown University student perspectives about diversity, identity and discrimination abroad.
addresses the specific benefits to African American students of studying abroad.
, by Stephanie Griffith, appeared in the New York Times and describes her experience as a black American student in Madrid, Spain.
- Go Overseas
- Diversity Abroad
- Go Abroad
- Go Abroad
- Go Abroad
- Go Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
- Huffington Post
- Project for Learning Abroad Training, and Outreach
- an overview of what you may expect and consider as a Black traveler and student abroad.
- things to consider for minority group members who study outside of the U.S.
- a variety of travel guides for specific countries. The Diversity & Inclusion Climate section provides information on how certain identities might be seen or treated in that country.
- MatadorNetwork
- the award-winning travel blog 鈥淥neika the Traveller鈥,
- Mixed Race American blog
鈥 a NYT opinion article by Alaa Al Aswany
- blog
- recently recorded conversations about preparing for and undertaking study/travel abroad, and navigating Black identity outside the U.S.
- stories of study abroad & transformational travel from people of color
You may also find more helpful resources in the tab.
Ability and Accessibility Abroad
Ability and Accessibility Abroad
Supporting Students with Accommodation Needs
The CSI Center for Global Engagement encourages all students who meet program eligibility requirements to study abroad as part of their degree. If you want to study abroad and anticipate barriers to participation due to a disability or health concern, you should discuss your needs and concerns with a Study Abroad Advisor. Your advisor can:
- Coordinate with you, the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS), and program staff abroad to arrange reasonable accommodations that will meet your accommodation needs.
- Work closely with you and your CSA counselor to identify program options that match your interests and fit your accommodation needs.
- Provide additional resources based on your needs.
Although the CSI Center for Global Engagement cannot guarantee that any or all our program sites can accommodate your specific needs, we will do our best to work with you in finding options. Please visit us and speak with a Study Abroad Advisor about programs that interest you.
Students should be prepared for a difference in how the concept of "disability" and 鈥渁ccessibility鈥 may be culturally defined abroad. Local attitudes towards different individuals with disabilities and levels of accessibility can vary greatly from country to country.
Additional Resources:
- Mobility International USA - a superb organization with countless resources for all kinds of ability and accessibility abroad.
- Mobility International USA
鈥 Google
- Wheelchair Travel
- Curb Free with Cory Lee
&苍产蝉辫;鈥&苍产蝉辫;贰迟颈补蝉
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- International Narcotics Control Board
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- U.S. Department of State
鈥 New York State Education Department
, an arm of Mobility International USA. The website includes a database of disability organizations worldwide, tips for traveling with disabilities, free one-on-one consultations, and informational videos.
has some great information for their students with disabilities. The site provides information on how accommodations might differ abroad, medical and prescription needs, coping strategies, and tips from students who studied abroad with disabilities.
The .
With these resources and some preparation, we hope we can help you build a rewarding study abroad experience into your college degree. We encourage you to reach out to us and start exploring where and when you might study abroad.
Please feel free to contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. We are advising in-person at CSI and virtually via Zoom. See our contact info here: .
In addition, we encourage you to seek guidance and support at CSI from The Office of Accessibility Services:
Office of Accessibility Services
2800 Victory Boulevard
Room 1P-101
Staten Island, NY 10314
718-982-2510
csa@csi.cuny.edu
Heritage Seekers (going to ancestral homelands)
Heritage Seekers (going to ancestral homelands)
Many students choose to study abroad to learn more about their ancestry 鈥 these students are known as heritage seekers. The Institute of International Education has coined the term 鈥渉eritage seeker鈥 as a student who is drawn to study abroad in a particular country and culture 鈥渘ot because it is unfamiliar and new, but rather because it is somewhat familiar.鈥
The type of experience you will have abroad as a heritage seeker will be unique. Some students come home feeling very connected to their ancestral roots, while others return feeling more appreciative of their American roots. Either way, going abroad will give you a chance to learn more about your ancestral history and the culture today firsthand.
Going to your ancestral homeland can be a very emotional experience because you are choosing the location not just for the academics, but for personal reasons as well. Some students will be able to meet with relatives, while others will be connecting with their ancestral history or the language of their family through coursework. Many students find that local community members have high expectations regarding the cultural knowledge and linguistic capabilities of heritage seeking students.
Heritage seekers, at times, have idealized views of their ancestral homes, so it is important to go into the country with an open mind. You may be welcomed by the local community, but still considered an outsider. Often in the U.S., people will ask about your ancestral background and someone will reply, 鈥淚鈥檓 Chinese and Thai.鈥 or 鈥 I鈥檓 Irish, French, and German.鈥, but abroad, you may likely be seen as an American.
Some Things to Consider:
- How am I perceived in the US?
- How will I be perceived in my destination country?
- How should I react if I find something to be offensive?
- How will it be if I become part of the majority abroad?
- How will I handle it if relatives ask for money or other favors while I am there?
- Will there be other heritage students in my program?
- Will I be studying in the country my parents are from, perhaps not having ever been there before, and perhaps not speaking the language?
- How might other parts of my identity affect my experience?
Additional Resources
- DiversityAbroad
about heritage seeking abroad
- MatadorNetwork
You may find more helpful resources in the tab.
Jewish Students Abroad
Jewish Students Abroad
Below are some resources to utilize for our Jewish students, particularly those who need a kosher experience when studying abroad. This is just a start on the resources available. Contact your advisor for program-specific information.
- - Resources for Students of Jewish Background
- - Working closely with UJA Federations of New York and CUNY Hillels, KAHAL is a non-profit organization that will provide you with resources to enhance your experience. KAHAL connects Jewish students to Jewish communities abroad and provides them with resources to navigate Jewish life in a foreign country. They want to make sure each student is supported and has a positive experience abroad. The resources include information Internships, Volunteering, Shabbat and holiday experiences, and more.
Studying abroad and looking for High Holiday plans? Join a local community, host family, or use our awesome 鈥淒IY鈥 resources
to organize an event yourself with friends for Rosh Hashanah and join others in your city to break-the-fast on Yom Kippur.
#SweetHomeAbroad
@KahalAbroad
Check out .
- Another source for finding out about kosher options abroad is , a global organization with more than 3,500 institutions worldwide. Often times, the local Chabad institution will have its own restaurant or meals and will usually have a page on its site dedicated to keeping kosher in that locale.
- As the largest Jewish student organization in the world, builds connections with emerging adults at more than 550 colleges and universities in North America and inspires them to direct their own path. During their formative college years, students are challenged to explore, experience, and create vibrant Jewish lives. Hillel also has a Hillel Scholarships and Jewish Scholarships Portal. There are .
- Jewish students may also want to explore opportunities offered by . That can include finding funding to attend certain programs abroad.
With these resources and some preparation, we hope we can help you build a rewarding study abroad experience into your college degree. We encourage you to reach out to us and start exploring where and when you might study abroad.
Please feel free to contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. We are advising in-person at CSI and virtually via Zoom. See our contact info here: .
In addition, we encourage you to seek guidance and support at CSI from:
CSI Hillel Club
Hillel's mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel seeks to inspire every Jewish student to make an enduring commitment to meaningful Jewish life and community. As members of the Multi-Faith Center at the College of Staten Island, we welcome the entire campus community and strive to be valuable partners in CSI's vibrant and diverse student experience. As a Jewish organization on Staten Island, we are committed and collaborative partners in the community, helping to make Staten Island a great place to live, work, and study.
For more information, please contact
Amy Posner, Executive Director, Hillel at CSI, Inc.
718.982.3006
amy.posner@csi.cuny.edu
Multifaith Center
1C-212
Religion and Spirituality Abroad
Religion and Spirituality Abroad
Religion is an important aspect of many cultures, and study abroad can expose you to a variety of different belief systems. Whether you practice a religion or not, it is important to understand your beliefs in the context of your future host country鈥檚 religious culture and the role religion plays in daily life.
We recommend these tips when abroad:
- Research your destination鈥檚 religious tolerance levels.
- If you plan to worship abroad, research availability of worship locations for your faith and the safety of these locations.
- Use the local religion as a lens to the local culture. Some cultures may welcome you to attend local services, even if you do not believe in the faith.
- Know the local laws concerning religion and, especially, as this relates to anything that may appear to be proselytizing. In some cultures, for instance, even a religious necklace could be considered proselytizing.
- Demonstrate respect- wear appropriate attire, show proper respect to icons, etc. If you do not know what is appropriate, ask.
Additional resources:
- Diversity Abroad
- U.S. Department of State
- World Buddhist Directory
鈥 Salatomatic
- Halal Trip
- Have Halal Will Travel
- is a source of Islamic information and a large e-Muslim community
- resources for navigating daily life
See resources for in a separate TAB.
Veteran Students and GI Bill Recipients
Veteran Students and GI Bill Recipients
Here are some resources that can help you with study abroad:
for child dependents of active-duty service members to study or intern abroad on credit-bearing programs
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
- Go Abroad
鈥 U.S. Government Department of Veteran Affairs
- Go Abroad
With these resources and some preparation, we hope we can help you build a rewarding study abroad experience into your college degree. We encourage you to reach out to us and start exploring where and when you might study abroad.
Please feel free to contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. We are advising in-person at CSI and virtually via Zoom. See our contact info here: .
We also encourage you to reach out for advice and support to:
CSI Veterans Support Services
Veterans Support Services 1C-216
(718) 982-3108
Deborah Lloret
Veteran Support Staff
Email: deborah.lloret@csi.cuny.edu
SIT's Diversity Resources by Global Region
SIT's Diversity Resources by Global Region
For a wide variety of resources for equality, diversity, and inclusion based on specific countries and regions of the world, see the School for International Training's equity, diversity, and inclusion with links for:
- Latin America,
- Africa South of the Sahara,
- Asia & the Pacific,
- Middle East & North Africa, and
- Europe.
Just scroll down the page and look for 鈥Resources by Region鈥, and click open each section to see regional links on all kinds of topics.
Please feel free to contact us to set a study abroad advising appointment at the Center for Global Engagement. We are advising in-person at CSI and virtually via Zoom. See our contact info here: .