The perspectives and experiences that LGBTQ+ folks bring to an organization are plainly valuable, though their transition to the workplace and encounters with professional development can be discouraging because acceptance of LGBTQ+ people still varies by organization and community. Students and alumni will find below a range of on-campus and external resources and information to help them through their search for a meaningful co-op and career and with acclimating to the workplace.
Support at Wentworth
Everyone brings their own story, skills, and interests to their job search and as employees. However, LGBTQ+ students and alumni often come to us with similar questions and concerns about their search for work and transition to the workplace. LGBTQ+ students and alumni may need support with disclosing their gender identity or pronouns, addressing workplace harassment and discrimination, and building a supportive professional community. Additionally, laws protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ employees are not universal and fluctuate by state and country.
Your Co-op & Career Advisor is available by appointment to provide advice and support about gender identity and/or sexual orientation specific to your co-op or job search, workplace dynamics, and professional development.
Talk with us about
- Finding an LGBTQ+ friendly employer.
- Leveraging your connections in the LGBTQ+ community to find a job.
- Finding employee resource groups.
- If, when, and how to come out to your colleagues.
- How and when to disclose your pronouns.
- Filling out forms with binary genders if you identify as non-binary.
- Filling out forms asking for legal name if you go by your preferred name.
- Addressing workplace and interview discrimination and harassment regarding your gender identity or sexual orientation.
On campus
The main on-campus resource for LGBTQ+ students is the The Center for Diversity and Global Engagement. Check out their website for office hours, upcoming events, and resources.
In addition, we recommend students get involved with Queer Leopard Alliance, the student run campus club focused on creating an atmosphere of acceptance at Wentworth. More information including up-to-date meeting times and locations can be found on Leopard Spot.
Useful Articles:
Job Searching While LGBTQ: How to Find a Truly Inclusive Place to Work
Practical Advice for Transgender and Nonbinary Folks Navigating the Job Search