Leading with PRIDE: We meet the business school students making education more inclusive for all
- Name: Mona Jasmin Baumann, former co-head of FS Unity
- Business School: Frankfurt School of Finance and Management
- Programme studied: Masters in Management
Can you share your overall experience as an LGBTQ+ student in business school?
My experience as an LGBTQ+ student in a business school was largely positive and enlightening. Frankfurt School made concerted efforts to foster an inclusive and diverse environment and raise awareness for the LGBTQ+ community. In the classroom, I felt respected and heard, and my identity was never a barrier to my participation or success in academic activities. In fact, I feel it added a unique perspective that enhanced discussions and group projects.
Of course, it was not without its challenges. There were times when I faced underlying biases from peers who may not have been understanding or aware. But these incidents were opportunities for dialogue, education, and growth on both sides.
Overall, my business school experience as an LGBTQ+ student was one of growth, community, and empowerment. It reinforced my belief in the importance of diversity and inclusion in all spaces, including academia and the corporate world.
Were there any specific resources, groups, or support systems available for LGBTQ+ students at your school? How did they help you?
One specific resource I would like to mention here is the student initiative FS Unity which created a safe and supportive space for students and allies alike. We organised events on campus and guest speeches, providing a platform for connection, offering opportunities to engage with like-minded peers and professionals within the LGBTQ+ community.
Initially, I joined FS Unity as a member. Being part of this group provided me with a sense of belonging and a shared understanding of the unique experiences we face as LGBTQ+ individuals. Later, I had the honour of leading the initiative as co-head, allowing me to contribute more actively to the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for our rights, and working to enhance inclusivity within the school.
FS Unity was a cornerstone of my experience at Frankfurt School. It not only offered support but also empowered me as an individual. It helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I am grateful for the experience and connections I made through it.
Can you describe any challenges you faced as an LGBTQ+ student during your time in business school?
As an LGBTQ+ student in a business school, one of the challenges I faced was dealing with underlying biases from time to time. For instance, there was a time during a group project when a team member made an offhand comment that stemmed from stereotypical views about the LGBTQ+ community. It was subtle, not meant to be harmful, but it indicated a lack of understanding and awareness.
Rather than letting this incident slide, I decided to use it as an opportunity for dialogue. I had a conversation with the team member, explaining why the comment was inappropriate and how it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about LGBTQ+ individuals. The person was receptive to the discussion, and it ended up being a great learning experience for both of us.
For me, these types of incidents underscored the importance of continuing to raise awareness and educate others about the LGBTQ+ community. It is a reminder that even in supportive environments, there is always work to be done in fostering understanding and inclusivity.
Has your experience as an LGBTQ+ individual influenced your career choices and path to/from business school?
Definitely, my experience as an LGBTQ+ individual has significantly influenced my career choices and path. After completing my master’s degree, when I was applying for jobs, one of my key considerations was the company’s culture around diversity and inclusion, not only because I believe that an inclusive and diverse culture is an ethical must, but I also consider it beneficial for a company’s success.
“Your unique perspective as an LGBTQ+ individual is valuable and needed in the business world. Do not shy away from who you are.”
Diversity fosters a variety of perspectives, encourages creativity, and leads to better decision making. Hence, I sought out companies that demonstrated a strong commitment to these values, not just in their mission statement, but in their policies, practices, and everyday work environment, and that had diversity and inclusion initiatives as well as resources for LGBTQ+ employees.
What challenges have you faced in the business world related to your LGBTQ+ identity, and how have you overcome them?
In the business world, similar to my experiences in business school, I have encountered some challenges related to my LGBTQ+ identity. Underlying biases and lack of awareness about the LGBTQ+ community still exist, even in professional settings.
During one of my first working student positions, I noticed subtle exclusions in everyday conversations and social activities. I also encountered a few colleagues who held stereotypical views about the LGBTQ+ community. These biases, often unconscious, created a sense of being “different” or “other”, which can be isolating.
However, I have learned to see these moments as opportunities for dialogue and education. I initiated conversations with my colleagues and superiors about the importance of inclusive language and practices in the workplace. Additionally, I sought out mentors and allies in the workplace, individuals who were supportive and understanding. With their help, I was able to navigate such situations more effectively.
Overcoming these challenges has not been easy, but it has strengthened my resolve to advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. It has instilled in me the importance of being true to oneself, creating open dialogues, and fostering understanding among diverse groups of people.
Do you feel that businesses are becoming more inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ+ employees? Why or why not?
Yes, I do feel that businesses are becoming more inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ+ employees. This shift is evident in the growing number of companies implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives and non-discrimination policies. More businesses are recognising the importance of creating an environment where all employees, regardless of their identity, can feel valued and safe.
However, it is important to note that progress varies from company to company. Some businesses are the forefront, actively promoting inclusivity and equal rights, while others are slower to adapt.
Moreover, while policies and initiatives are crucial, the true test of inclusivity lies in everyday interactions and practices as it is about fostering a culture where everyone feels comfortable being their authentic selves.
Ultimately, my experiences have shown me that while we have made significant strides, there is still work to be done. Continuous education and dialogue are key to fostering understanding and combating biases.
What advice would you give to current LGBTQ+ business students about navigating business school and preparing for their careers?
My advice to current LGBTQ+ students is threefold:
- Embrace your identity: Your unique perspective as an LGBTQ+ individual is valuable and needed in the business world. Do not shy away from who you are. Instead, use your experiences to contribute to the diversity of thought in your classroom discussions, group projects, and ultimately, in your future workplace.
- Seek out resources and community: Look for resources and groups like FS Unity at your school. These can offer valuable support, networking opportunities, and a sense of community. They can also provide a platform for raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.
- Choose wisely: When it comes to selecting job opportunities, consider the company’s culture around diversity and inclusion. Look beyond just the mission statements – pay attention to their policies, practices, and the experiences of current and past employees. You want to work in an environment where you can be your authentic self.
How can business schools improve their support and inclusion of LGBTQ+ students?
In my opinion, business schools can improve their support and inclusion of LGBTQ+ students in several ways:
- Educate the community: Schools should educate their community – students, faculty, and staff – about LGBTQ+ issues and experiences to foster understanding and help reduce biases and stereotypes. This can be accomplished through workshops, seminars, and mandatory diversity and inclusion trainings.
- Support student initiatives: Schools can provide resources and support for student initiatives like FS Unity. These groups play a vital role in creating a sense of community and raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.
- Promote inclusivity in curriculum: The curriculum should reflect diverse perspectives, including those of the LGBTQ+ community. Incorporating case studies, readings, and discussions that highlight diverse experiences in business can contribute to a more inclusive learning environment.
- Provide career guidance: Career services should offer guidance tailored to the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students. This could include information about inclusive employers and guidance on navigating job searches and interviews as an LGBTQ+ individual.
- Create a safe environment: Finally, schools should have clear policies in place to protect LGBTQ+ students from discrimination and harassment. A safe, respectful environment is fundamental to inclusivity and an accepting environment.
What can companies do to better support LGBTQ+ employees and create an inclusive workplace culture?
I think companies, just like business schools, can take several steps to better support LGBTQ+ employees and foster an inclusive workplace culture:
- Implement and enforce non-discrimination policies: Clear policies should be in place that protect LGBTQ+ employees from discrimination and harassment. These policies should be enforced and regularly communicated to all employees.
- Educate employees: Companies should offer diversity and inclusion training to all employees to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues, challenge biases, and promote understanding and respect.
- Support employee resource groups: Companies can support or establish employee resource groups for LGBTQ+ employees and allies. These groups can provide a sense of community, serve as a platform for advocacy, and offer networking and professional development opportunities.
- Promote inclusivity in daily practices: Inclusivity should be part of everyday interactions and practices. This can include using inclusive langue, respecting employees’ pronouns, and creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable being their authentic selves.
Interested in this series? You might also like this…