My Experience as a Transgender Student at Falmouth University

This article was written by Game Art BA(Hons) student Ooshi.

So, we’ll all agree here, being transgender is tough! 

When I applied for university, I was someone who wasn’t out to my family but out with my friends, and I worried about whether I would receive similar acceptance at university. 

Having a preferred name section on the Falmouth hub before I officially started at the university took away some of the nerves that come with such a big step, and even more so when I saw my preferred name on my Student ID, with no questions asked. There is, of course, the odd email that comes through with that dreaded other name, but I’ve never been called anything but Ooshi by lecturers, fellow students and other members of the university. 

Representation is everywhere at Falmouth. Students feel confident enough to express themselves in lots of different ways and the extracurriculars that are available follow the same streak. The most obvious is the Pride Society, who “aim to provide an environment where people across the spectrum of gender and sexuality can feel safe, comfortable and happy with who they are during their time at university.” Queer communities are prominent in many other societies too. I am a member of the roller-skating society, and I have always found myself welcome amongst its members, and the President of the society when I joined was also using they/them pronouns!   

The university runs several events such as SHAG week (it stands for what you think it stands for- but it is learning related!), and across the year the university hosts drag nights, too. On a Thursday in the gym they have queer hours, where you can work out in an entirely safe space.  

Though there are gender bathrooms in certain buildings, there is always a gender neutral/disabled toilet to go in too, so those who don’t assign with the binary genders always have somewhere to go. This is the same with the changing rooms in the gym, too.  

Many of my friends are happily out and feel comfortable to express their identity, but some are unsure as to who they truly are. This can come with a lot of worry and stress when meeting new people. From talking to and generally being around these friends, however, I have learnt that there is really no judgement from anyone, and no matter what feelings you have around gender or sexuality, people want to be friends with you because of who you are as person. 

Though I came to Falmouth for the course and the comfort of being near the seaside, which is like where I grew up, the community, acceptance and freedom of expression that is abundant within the town has absolutely boosted my happiness and mental health. It is really good to know that no matter how I dress or identify, I’m still going to be respected and cared for.