Student organizations are associations wherein students can connect with other students based on something in common, whether that be the same field of interest, the same cultural or ethnic background, or a shared hobby. These organizations have resources, mentorship programs, events and activities, as well as internships and outreach opportunities for students. There are several supportive student organizations for LGBTQ+ students here at UConn.
The first LGBTQ+ student organization we will discuss is QAA, or Queer Asians and Allies. The club “celebrates the diversity thriving at UConn.” Their goal is to create and maintain a safe space for LGBTQ+ Asian and Asian-American students, as well as allies. Therefore, QAA is open to everyone, even if they are not LGBTQ+ or Asian. The organization meets every Thursday from 7-8:30 in McHugh 109. For any questions, reach out to QAA at uconn.qaa@gmail.com. Check out their Instagram here for pictures from meetings and information about their events, including game nights, movie nights, and holiday parties!
A second student organization for the LGBTQ+ community is Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, or oSTEM. oSTEM’s purpose is to educate and foster leadership among LGBTQ+ STEM students. oSTEM aims to prepare each of their students for the workforce with support from academic, corporate, and government institutions. The goal of oSTEM is to become the “most valued and trusted professional resource for LGBTQA students in the STEM fields.” You can join their Discord here, and check out their Instagram here. For any questions, email oSTEM at uconnstem@gmail.com.
Finally, Creating Caring Communities (CCC) is a student organization that works to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students. CCC is a diverse and inclusive organization that provides resources to members of the community. The organization also has networking opportunities for members in order to provide personal and professional development. CCC has bi-weekly meetings from 6:00-7:00 in Monteith 414. For any questions, email the CCC at cccatuconn@gmail.com and check out their Instagram here.
To explore more resources for LGBTQ+ identifying students, visit our LGBTQ+ Affinity Community page HERE.
Photo Credit: Ivan via Adobe Stock
