My name is Ben Dent and I studied abroad in London, England, over this recent winter break. The program lasted 12 days and consisted of coursework, cultural and historical tours, alumni networking events, and professional business tours. While abroad, I was given the unique opportunity to experience life in a city known for its diversity and inclusion, and it has since changed me in many immeasurable ways.  

 I have had the honor many times to travel outside of the U.S. Something I always must be cautious about when traveling abroad is whether the LGBTQ+ community is supported in the locations we are traveling to. Luckily, I have never been to a place that has made me feel like I was in danger. That being said, I have certainly been to places where I do feel like I have to subdue my personality in order to fit in. London was a completely different story. I haven’t ever experienced being in a place that so openly supports the LGBTQ+ community. Everywhere you went there were pride flags hanging and blowing in the wind. I felt safe and I felt seen. I had originally believed that gay culture in London would be very similar to that of the U.S. In some respects, it was, but overall, the vibe the entire time I was there just screamed acceptance.  

I have always been timid when talking about sexuality, but in London I felt a weight lifted off my shoulders. Seeing gay couples walking around holding hands on the street, just being their true authentic selves and no one batting an eye, was unbelievably heartwarming. I felt like I didn’t need to restrict myself when talking to others or when expressing myself. I felt like I could truly be myself and I could stop worrying so much about what people were thinking of me. It just felt like everyone there minded their own business and couldn’t care less about another person’s sexuality, let alone any other characteristics.  

"Experiencing such an open culture regarding the LGBTQ+ community has allowed me to truly discover who I am. I feel like I have come back from London a more open and genuine person.  I have been staying truer to myself which is something I am certain studying abroad in London has fostered within myself."

Experiencing such an open culture regarding the LGBTQ+ community has allowed me to truly discover who I am. I feel like I have come back from London a more open and genuine person. I have been staying truer to myself which is something I am certain studying abroad in London has fostered within myself. I feel more connected to the LGBTQ+ community both locally and now globally. I had been trapped in my head worrying about whether I belonged or not, but after spending time in London, surrounded by open-minded people, I feel a lot more at peace now that I’m back in the U.S.  

One thing that surprised me while in London was the style. I had done research before traveling to make sure I looked my best while abroad. The locals have a great sense of style, and everyone there looked important and poised. The sense of style was just so different from what I’m used to here in Iowa. I almost felt more out of place being an underdressed American than being gay. It was such a funny thing to learn to navigate while I was there and it made me almost feel more comfortable because if people were staring, they were probably just noting the fact I was American which didn’t bother me.  

Overall, my time in London will stay with me for the rest of my life. I came back a new person all for the better. I would recommend anyone that’s thinking about studying abroad to go for it. I wasn’t sure whether I would like it, hence why I chose a shorter winter program, and I am so happy with my decision. It was the perfect amount of time, and I didn’t have to miss a semester here back in Iowa. I felt safe, seen, and accepted while abroad and I have since felt a stronger connection to the LGBTQ+ community as a result. 

Ben Dent (finance major), a Diversity Ambassador Scholarship recipient, participated in International Business in London in winter 2022.

LEARN HOW YOU CAN APPLY FOR A DIVERSITY AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP

The Diversity Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support the diversification of students who study abroad. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.

Please note that the opinions and views expressed by diversity ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.