Taking advantage of mental health services on campus - or the mentoring and support groups available through LGBTQ+ student centers - can go a long way towards alleviating feelings of depression and loneliness. In fact, studies show that queer students often experience suicidal ideation where they think about, or even attempt, suicide at some point during their college years. On a psychological level, some LGBTQ students may feel lonely and isolated, which puts them at significant risk of depression. It's important for these students to take advantage of the information and resources provided by their campus health center so they not only understand the importance of safe sex but also practice it. And when it comes to LGBTQ students and HIV, some young people today may mistakenly believe that because the disease can be effectively managed through medication, they don't have to worry about safe sex practices - a myth that can put them and others at significant risk. The possibility of contracting an STI is of particular concern on college campuses. On a physical level, LGBTQ students, like their heterosexual friends, need to be concerned about sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Transgender students on campus can receive their hormone therapy prescriptions as well as help through the Voice and Communication Modification Program run by the school's speech pathology department. Students can receive counseling from trained professionals who are sensitive to the issues that the community faces, and the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services offers education programs for those who are questioning their sexuality. Ithaca College has several LGBTQ+ student organizations, including activist group Created Equal, educational and social group PRISM, and Athlete Ally, which was created to engender positive relations between athletes and the LGBTQ community. The school's Center for LGBT Education, Outreach and Services has a student resource room that includes books, videos, computer stations and periodicals regular education programs covering a wide range of LGBTQ issues and brochures and pamphlets that address the needs and concerns of LGBTQ+ students and their families. But that doesn't mean this isn't a time to also have some fun - during Awareness Month, Ithaca College also hosts the LGBTQA Pride Prom which is open to all students.Īlthough April's events showcase the inclusive nature of Ithaca College, members of the LGBTQ+ community can feel welcome on campus year-round. During this time, the college hosts lectures, workshops, film screenings, and training programs related to issues that impact LGBTQ+ people.
In April, students at Ithaca College can participate in a month-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community because the school organizes a series of events for LGBT Awareness Month. Ithaca College, though much smaller than Indiana University, has also been given a five-star ranking on the Campus Pride index. The school also offers gender-inclusive bathrooms around the campus. Students at Indiana University Bloomington have the option to live among like-minded people in LGBTQ housing. Additionally, allies can receive training to learn more about the community and ways they can support their queer peers. For example, the office publishes a newsletter and resource guide, maintains a library, and provides counseling services. The GLBT Student Support Services Office hosts activities, groups, and events specifically geared toward LGBTQ students and their allies. Indiana University Bloomington has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community. In addition, Indiana University Press publishes LGBT-related books. For example, LGBT Thought and Culture is an online resource hosted through the library that includes archives, and books and periodicals documenting the social, political and cultural movements of LGBTQ+ people. The school has educational resources to increase awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. Students have the option to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree through the gender studies department. The school's gender studies program includes coursework on sexual politics, queer culture and history, sex and gender differences, and gender and the body. Indiana University's efforts led it to be just one of the very first colleges to be given a perfect five-star rating by Campus Pride. Inside and outside of the classroom, Indiana University Bloomington has created an environment that is welcoming and proud of its LGBTQ+ community.