College is a time of self-discovery, challenging one’s views of the world, learning, and growing. So it’s no wonder that a lot of women question their sexuality while in college. If you are feeling a bit confused, don’t panic; there are plenty of resources available to help you cope and understand yourself better. Just remember that no matter what you conclude, it will turn out okay. And if you don’t conclude anything? Well, that’s just fine too.
The following are some great resources for finding comfort while you question:
1. Your Friends
It may be helpful to talk through your confusion with a friend. Try to confide in someone who you know is laid-back and trustworthy. Sometimes it’s helpful to just have a rant. You may be surprised to find your friend has questioned themselves before, too. If you have queer friends, try to chat with one of them; they’ve been where you are now at some point.
2. YouTube
YouTube has thousands of queer bloggers just waiting to help you out. A quick search of any question you have will bring you to some great people with poignant advice. From queer advice channels to coming out videos, there are many sources of comfort to be found here. Maybe you can simply find someone to relate to. Some great examples: RoseEllenDix, Kaelyn and Lucy, ElloSteph, MyHarto, and hartbeat. If you want more of a television show series with a relatable character, check out “Carmilla.”
3. Television
There is more queer representation on TV than ever before! Whether you opt for some clichéd classics geared towards the LGBTQIA+ community, or something a bit less overtly queer-oriented, a quick Google search should find you what you need. Examples: Skins, The L Word, Glee, and Lost Girl.
4. Counseling
Now you certainly don’t need to visit a counselor if you question your sexuality, but for some people it causes more distress than for others. If you can’t quite take it in stride, consider talking your feelings out with one of these lovely impartial listeners. For Emerson gals, that might mean calling up ECAPS for an appointment.
5. Online Forums
There are tons of forums for people in this stage of exploring their sexuality online. If you are looking to find others who feel or have felt like you, the Internet is a great place to look. Obviously if you post your own question, be anonymous and safe about it.
6. Tumblr
Ah, tumblr. The haven for all procrastination, but a surprisingly good resource too. There are tons of queer advice blogs, questioning advice blogs, blogs geared toward the queer population, and blogs simply run by queer people! Plus, if you can’t find what you are looking for you can always find some great cute animal pictures, so it’s a win-win.
Though we live in a much more accepting time than the past, and us Emerson students are at the most accepting school in the country, it’s okay to feel scared or lost if you are in this period of your life; and it’s okay to feel excited or indifferent as well! Whatever you are feeling, just remember it is valid, and if you need it, don’t be afraid to seek out some help.