Shaped by Intersecting Identities: BIPOC Women's Stories of Their Study Abroad Experiences

Study abroad is often hailed as a unique and important learning experience that prepares students for life and work in a global society. Many benefits and learning outcomes such as language learning, personal growth and development, educational and career attainment, and the development of intercultural competence are ascribed to study abroad. Study abroad, however, has an elitist history and often uses approaches steeped in whiteness, which ignore the unique needs and experiences of Black indigenous people of color (BIPOC) students. Previous research also indicates that intersecting identities may shape students' experiences while abroad, limiting or enhancing their learning in different ways. Utilizing intersectionality and the Intersectional-Model of Multiple Dimensions of Identity as guiding frameworks, the purpose of this narrative inquiry was to explore BIPOC women's stories of study abroad. Based on two interviews with each of the six BIPOC women participants, we found that intersecting identities shaped participants' experiences with study abroad, from their interest in study abroad to their experiences while abroad. Intersecting systems of oppression created unique barriers for BIPOC women to access study abroad, led to concerns about safety, and influenced students' interactions with host nationals. These experiences led to increased identity exploration, with participants sharing that study abroad made them feel more confident in their intersecting identities. We discuss implications for future research and practice.