Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Arcadia Abroad

You matter. Your identities matter. Your concerns matter.
We’re glad you’re here.
We care about your voices and experiences.
We are here to help you navigate your identities abroad.

At Arcadia Abroad, we believe studying abroad should be a life-changing experience accessible to everyone. Our mission is to ensure that every individual feels welcomed, valued, and supported as part of our global community. We’re committed to creating programs that reflect and celebrate the diversity of our students, staff, and partners around the world.

Our Promise to Support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We know that studying abroad is a powerful experience that can shape future leaders, build confidence, and help students understand the world. That’s why we prioritize:

• Access for All Students: We are committed to making study abroad opportunities accessible to students from all backgrounds. Through scholarships, financial aid, and culturally inclusive programming, we strive to remove barriers and create access for everyone.
• An Inclusive Community: Our goal is to build an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging. Our programs and staff celebrate the unique identities, stories, and contributions of all individuals, so that everyone feels seen and valued.

Why DEI Matters in Study Abroad

A diverse and inclusive community amplifies learning, strengthens connections, and encourages empathy. At Arcadia Abroad, we aim to provide every student—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or ability—the opportunity to grow academically, personally, and culturally through study abroad.

Supporting Our Diverse Student Community

In recent years, study abroad programs have welcomed students from increasingly diverse backgrounds and we are proud to lead efforts in creating spaces where all individuals feel respected and supported. We invite all members of our community—students, faculty, and staff—to join us in creating a place where every voice is valued and every experience matters.

Identity and Cultural Exchange

Studying abroad is an opportunity to not only learn about another culture but also gain new insights about yourself. We encourage students to approach this experience with curiosity and openness, discovering how their identity influences and enriches their global experience. These moments of self-discovery often lead to meaningful connections, new perspective, and lasting friendships.

Our Commitment to Training Our Staff

Our commitment to DEI extends to our global team to ensure all students feel welcomed and supported. We provide comprehensive training for staff in both the U.S. and abroad, focusing on cultural competency, inclusive practices, and strategies to support students from all backgrounds. This training ensures that every student’s study abroad experience is safe, inclusive, and positive.

Our Long-Term Commitment to Access, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just principles for Arcadia Abroad—they are the foundation of our work. Our initiatives include:

• Building and designing programs that are inclusive and equitable.
• Embedding DEI values in every role within Arcadia Abroad.
• Creating a lasting culture of respect, inclusion, and understanding in every program location.

Council on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (CEDI)

Arcadia Abroad’s Council on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (CEDI) includes staff and faculty across the organization who work together to advocate for DEI values in the work we do and in the programs we provide for students. The members of CEDI help guide the diversity and equity work across all of our Centers around the world.

Our journey to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive study abroad experience is ongoing. We invite you to join us as we continue to grow, learn, and celebrate the unique perspectives that make studying abroad so impactful.