As an LGBTQ+ college student, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of higher education. From finding safe and inclusive housing to accessing mental health support, there are many challenges that can arise. However, there are also many resources available to help LGBTQ+ students succeed and feel supported. In this blog post, we’ll explore 44 resources for LGBTQ+ college students, covering everything from academic support to social and community connections.
- LGBTQ+ student organizations
Joining an LGBTQ+ student organization is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and find a sense of community on campus. These organizations often offer a variety of events, including social gatherings, educational workshops, and advocacy opportunities. - Ally training programs
Ally training programs are designed to educate straight and cisgender students, faculty, and staff about LGBTQ+ issues and how to be an ally. These programs can help create a more inclusive campus environment. - LGBTQ+ centers or resource offices
Many colleges and universities have dedicated LGBTQ+ centers or resource offices that provide a safe and welcoming space for students. These centers often offer a range of services, such as counseling, advocacy, and referrals to other resources. - Academic support services
Colleges often offer a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, writing centers, and study groups. Make sure to take advantage of these resources to help you succeed in your classes. - Mentorship programs
Mentorship programs can provide valuable guidance and support from older students or alumni. Look for mentorship programs specifically geared towards LGBTQ+ students. - Scholarships and financial aid
There are many scholarships and financial aid opportunities available for LGBTQ+ students. Check with your college’s financial aid office or search for scholarships specifically for LGBTQ+ students. - Mental health and counseling services
College can be stressful, and LGBTQ+ students may face additional mental health challenges. Make sure to know where to access mental health and counseling services on campus. - Health clinics with LGBTQ+-competent care
Some colleges have health clinics that offer LGBTQ+-competent care, including hormone therapy and sexual health services. If your college doesn’t have these services, look for healthcare providers in the community who are knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ health needs. - LGBTQ+ housing options
Many colleges offer housing options specifically for LGBTQ+ students, or have housing that is inclusive and supportive of all students. - Diversity and inclusion initiatives
Look for diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus, such as multicultural student organizations or events focused on inclusive leadership. - Career services
Your college’s career services office can help you with everything from resume writing to networking and job hunting. They may also offer resources specifically for LGBTQ+ students, such as internships with LGBTQ+-friendly employers. - Online LGBTQ+ student communities
Joining an online community of LGBTQ+ college students can provide additional support and a sense of connection. There are many groups and forums available on social media and other platforms. - Local LGBTQ+ organizations
Get involved with local LGBTQ+ organizations in your college town or city. These organizations often offer social events, support groups, and volunteer opportunities. - LGBTQ+ history and culture courses
Take advantage of courses that explore LGBTQ+ history, literature, and culture. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of your identity and the experiences of others. - LGBTQ+ libraries and archives
Many colleges have LGBTQ+ focused libraries or archives, which can be a great resource for research and learning about LGBTQ+ history and activism. - Transgender-specific resources
If you are a transgender or non-binary student, there may be additional resources available to you, such as name change assistance or access to gender-neutral restrooms. - Interfaith and spiritual resources
If you are interested in exploring your spiritual or religious identity, look for interfaith or LGBTQ+-friendly religious organizations on campus. - Legal resources
Know your rights as an LGBTQ+ student and where to access legal support if needed. Your college’s student affairs office or local LGBTQ+ organizations may be able to provide guidance. - LGBTQ+ activist organizations
Get involved with LGBTQ+ activist organizations to advocate for change on campus and in your community. - SafeZone training
SafeZone training is designed to educate faculty, staff, and students about LGBTQ+ issues and how to be an ally. Encourage your college to offer this training. - LGBTQ+ faculty and staff networks
Look for faculty and staff members who are part of an LGBTQ+ network or who are out and ally. They can provide support and guidance. - LGBTQ+ alumni networks
Connecting with LGBTQ+ alumni can provide networking opportunities and a sense of community beyond college. - Conference and workshops
Attend conferences and workshops focused on LGBTQ+ issues in higher education to learn, connect with others, and gain new skills. - Online learning platforms
Many online learning platforms offer courses and resources related to LGBTQ+ issues, mental health, and well-being. - Professional development opportunities
Look for professional development opportunities specifically geared towards LGBTQ+ students, such as leadership retreats or career fairs. - Study abroad programs with LGBTQ+ support
If you’re interested in studying abroad, look for programs that are inclusive and have resources for LGBTQ+ students. - LGBTQ+ student leadership programs
Participate in leadership programs specifically for LGBTQ+ students to develop your leadership skills and make a difference on campus. - Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training
DEI training can help you understand and address systemic inequalities and create a more inclusive campus environment. - Wellness programs
Many colleges offer wellness programs, including fitness classes, stress management workshops, and mental health resources. Make sure to take advantage of these to support your overall well-being. - Art and creative expression resources
Explore art, music, and creative expression resources on campus. These can be a great way to express yourself and connect with others. - LGBTQ+ sports teams and recreation programs
Join an LGBTQ+ sports team or participate in recreation programs that are inclusive and welcoming. - Peer support groups
Look for peer support groups on campus, such as groups for LGBTQ+ students of color or students with disabilities. - Sexual health resources
Access sexual health resources on campus, such as condom distributions or STI testing. - Queer media and publications
Subscribe to queer media and publications to stay informed about LGBTQ+ news, culture, and events. - LGBTQ+ research and scholarship
Get involved in LGBTQ+ research or apply for scholarships that focus on LGBTQ+ studies. - Faculty mentorship programs
Look for faculty mentorship programs that can provide guidance and support for your academic and professional development. - Alumni mentorship programs
Connect with alumni through mentorship programs to gain valuable insights and advice. - LGBTQ+ student emergency funds
In case of financial emergencies, know if your college has an LGBTQ+ student emergency fund or other forms of financial assistance. - Campus safety resources
Familiarize yourself with campus safety resources, such as emergency blue light phones and the campus police department. - LGBTQ+-friendly off-campus housing
If you’re looking for off-campus housing, look for options that are known to be LGBTQ+ friendly. - Local LGBTQ+ community centers
Visit your local LGBTQ+ community center for additional resources, events, and support. - National LGBTQ+ organizations
Become familiar with national LGBTQ+ organizations that offer resources, advocacy, and support. - LGBTQ+ advocacy and policy resources
Stay informed about LGBTQ+ advocacy and policy efforts at the local, state, and national levels. - Self-care and stress management resources
Make sure to take care of yourself with self-care and stress management resources. This could include mindfulness apps, meditation groups, or hobbies that bring you joy.
Remember, these resources are here to support you as you navigate college and explore your identity. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help when you need it. And remember, you are not alone—there are many others in the LGBTQ+ community who are here to support and empower you.
