Finding and Navigating a Queer Affirming Campus Joshua Burford & Bob Bardwell

Issues Facing Queer Students Language Lack of Knowledge From Professionals Expanded Identities Negative Perceptions Low Expectations How do we improve this?

Where to Start Start where the student is at Is he/she out? How do you discuss this aspect of their college choice? Gather resources Provide ongoing support

What LGBT students should look for Active LGBT Clubs/organizations Social network Support system Outlet for advocacy Activities/social events Out LGBT students Could this be a negative?

What LGBT students should look for (continued) Institutional resources Center or staff Paid professional or support staff Out LGBT faculty LGBT inclusive policies Non discrimination policies Same sex partner benefits Harassment/bullying policies

What LGBT students should look for (continued) Visible signs of pride EX: Safe Zone stickers on campus LGBT inclusive housing LGBT/Queer Studies major/minor Visible Online resources Is there a campus climate survey? How often are web materials updated?

Specifics of the Application The Application Itself Is there inclusive language? The interview To come out or not? The essay To come out or not? Activities List your GSA/community activities or not?

Resources for students Web Print The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students The Gay and Lesbian Guide to College Life – Princeton Review

Paying for college Traditional financial aid resources FAFSA/CSS Profile Scholarships National, state or local Specific LGBT Scholarships

Once on campus Coming out Finding a support network Visiting Student Affairs Conversations with Residence Life Getting involved Opting in During Orientation Student Organizations Safety Physical Medical

Contact Info Joshua Burford Assistant Director for Sexual & Gender Diversity UNC Charlotte Bob Bardwell Director of School Counseling Monson Innovation High School