This is a repost from this thread (http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-search-selection/1727795-transferring-to-transgender-friendly-college.html#latest) and if mods would want to delete the old one if it fits better here then that would be great.
Hi all,
I am a current undergraduate student at a small liberal arts college that is also single-sex. After a long period of soul-searching I have concluded that I am transgender and that my current institution is not right for me (for other reasons as well). Even though it is a great fit academically, I have decided to transfer to a coeducational college. (When I look for employment, I do not want to be “outed” to everyone who reads my resume.)
Unfortunately I do not know of many “transgender-friendly” colleges or universities. I am especially looking for schools that have good financial aid (a strong deciding factor) and strong neuroscience programs, and preferably (but not necessarily) are outside the Northeast. I am currently looking at Oberlin (which I was admitted to when I first applied to colleges in high school but did not attend because of lack of financial aid).
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
As a student at one of the most LGBT friendly schools (The New School) my experience is that pretty much just go to a school in a big liberal city and you’ll have absolutely no problems. I don’t know of any “transgender-friendly” or “unfriendly” specific schools, but you can definitely gauge how well you’ll fit in based on the area around the school. Also why not the Northeast? I think that or the West Coast you’d find the most acceptance.
I won’t say it’s not a big deal in the 21st century because I’m not sure the difficulties and the judgement you face on a daily basis but I wouldn’t overthink it too too much.
Oberlin tends to lean towards the liberal side, but if you couldnt afford it when applying as a freshman, what makes you think you can now?
shawnspencer - My family’s financial situation has become worse and they did not really bargain for any aid the last time (unlike other places). I did get decent academic scholarships when I first was admitted though.
Check out campuspride.org It rates colleges on how LGBT friendly they are.
Also, many top tier colleges are very LGBT friendly, if you have a shot at those. I know all the Ivies and ivy-level colleges are pretty LGBT friendly and have specific non-discrimination policies.
I would suggest Brown and Vassar, however, they are in the Northeast. Try Macalaster, Pomona, or Carleton outside the Northeast.
Message me if you need any tips.