College Can Be Extra Difficult for Trans People.
The idea of college is scary and overwhelming for most people as it is, but it can feel a lot worse for some transgender people. There is a whole list things that might stop some trans people from obtaining higher education: The fear of communal restrooms and shower might stop them from even trying to go, as that is a huge worry of my own; they might not want to deal with even more years of coming out to teachers and classmates, having to correct everything and deal with constant deadnaming (there is still a lot of this in other aspects of life but while in school, it feel a lot more common and prominent); maybe they could not finish high school because they had to support themselves or because of the way they were treated by their school and peers; they might not have the support of their family anymore to help pay for school; they could be spending every second of every day working to just make ends meet, so they definitely do not have the time nor the money to try to further their schooling when they are just trying to survive as it is. I am very thankful for my university being very accepting and accommodating, but unfortunately not every place is like that. At Wittenberg University, we have an amazing counseling team and support system, as well as a residence hall specifically for LGBTQ+ people. These two things, I feel, are essential elements that should be a part of every campus in order to make the college experience comfortable and enjoyable for all people. The transition to college life can be extremely difficult for and take a huge mental toll on anyone, so a good support system that students can trust is critical. There are a number of mental challenges and fears that trans people might face while going to college (such as not being able to fully transition or pass yet, discrimination, or lack of support) so having accepting and welcoming faculty and staff, capable of and willing to help anyone, should be a requirement for any college, no matter how big or small.
TransgenderFirst is one of, if not the first, group whose purpose is to help transgender students access and afford college. You can find their information at https://www.onlinedegree.com/transgender-first-scholarship/ :))
