On this episode of Challenge. Change., E. Tejada III, the associate director for gender and sexuality in Clark University’s Office of Identity, Student Engagement, and Access (ISEA), talks about finding self and resilience in college. This fall, Tejada is creating forums for students to explore their identity, including three affinity discussion groups on campus: trans and gender diverse, LGBTQ+ questioning and coming out, and queer and trans students of color.

“It really is an honest and vulnerable space for students to connect with someone who might be experiencing something similar, and also engage with trans ‘elders,’” Tejada says. “I work with students on building resilience because we have a safe space at Clark, but when you go out into the world and get a job, apply for rent, try to find housing, you’re going to run into situations where things aren’t so rosy.”

Tejada recommends the book “Gender Outlaw” by Kate Bornstein for anyone, but especially for queer and trans students.

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Challenge. Change. is produced by Melissa Hanson and Andrew Hart for Clark University. Find other episodes wherever you listen to podcasts.