Atheist and Transgender People at Baylor Graduate School

Colleges and Universities A-Z Baylor University
1

I’m finishing up my B.S. in geology this academic year, and will be taking some time off to work prior to graduate school but do intend to get a doctorate eventually. I’m finding potential universities to pursue grad school so I am prepared when I want to start applications.

While I am not a religious person, I am considering Baylor as there are a couple people there with the potential to be good matches as an advisor for me and my interests. I would be applying to the Department of Geosciences graduate program. But as an atheist transman with body mods (currently just piercings, but tattoos also at some point), I’m concerned that I’d just stick out like a sore thumb and never be comfortable there. I’m a CO native (Colorado Springs), currently at the University of Wyoming, in case that is helpful.

Can anyone tell me what the atmosphere there is like towards both non-religious people and to trans folk?

Geoscientists in my experience are generally pretty friendly, accepting people. I don’t think I’ll have trouble anywhere as long as I can demonstrate my competency in my field. But I want to make sure that wherever I end up as a Ph.D. student that I’m comfortable there and I like the people I’m working with.

2

My parents are from Waco and went to Baylor. But it was ages ago. I certainly cannot speak to the Geosciences grad school. Although it should not be necessary it could be worthwhile discussing and making sure up front that your target advisor(s) is accepting of you. An advisor that has it in for you and is not comfortable with you will make your life hell and put your graduation at risk. I would also read the bylaws and such of the school itself and make sure that you are protected from bias and prejudice by the institution itself. I would hope you would be accepted and judged only for your academic contributions, but that part of Texas may not be there yet. Around town you could get looks, possibly unkind words from a few people. Hopefully not worse than that, but anything is possible. (P.S. I’m commenting primarily on the fact that you are trans/tattooed/pierced. I don’t think being an atheist is going to adversely affect you there.)