LGBTQIA Campus Resources

Counseling and Consultation Services

Counseling and Consultation Services  aspires to create a safe, affirming, accepting and welcoming environment that embraces human diversity. Counseling is provided by licensed psychologists, counselors, and social workers, for a variety of concerns. LGBTQIA students, as many of us, face struggles with some aspects of life and desire to gain insight and make changes in their lives. Through counseling services, you may explore thoughts, perceptions, reactions, behaviors and emotions in order to better understand yourself. Counseling can assist in reducing stress and physical symptoms. It can improve the ability to engage in healthy decision-making, and enhance relationships with others.  Call 309-556-3052 to make an appointment to meet with a counselor - at no charge. 

Hart Career Center

The Hart Career Center is Silver Certified by Out for Work, an organization that provides assistance to LGBT students in the cultivation and enhancement of skills to explore career options, master job search techniques and strategies, and research employment opportunities. Career Center staff members also welcome opportunities to talk with students openly and honestly about how career opportunities intersect with LGBTQIA identity. Stop in to the Minor Myers, jr. Welcome Center to explore these issues and our LGBTQIA-oriented resources today! 

Residential Life

Moving into a college residence hall can be exciting and intimidating for many students. Those who LGBTQIA may have specific questions or concerns about living in the residence halls. We are proud to say that IWU's goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBTQIA students. 

Rainbow Floor, established in Pfeiffer Hall, is a gender inclusive living-learning community committed to counterspace, education and activism around social justice for LGBTQIA people.

Learn more about Residence Hall Life for LGBTQIA students. 

Study Abroad

LGBTQIA Issues

Before you go, it is important to reflect on the culturally-based ideas and definitions of sexual identity. You should carefully consider how your identity as a LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, and other identities) person may affect your relationships with host nationals, your cultural adjustment, and your overall education abroad experience.

Familiarize yourself with the laws of your host country and be sure to consider your safety as you navigate a new culture and legal system. Being LGBTQIA abroad has been described by some as a second coming out process. How will you re-establish your identity overseas?

Dating

If you want to date, figure out the norms of your host culture, especially if you identify within the LGBTQIA community. Find out the laws governing sexual orientation and sexual assault at your site. Be careful at first; learn the local laws. Learn the differences between what you are accustomed to at home and the way your host culture works.