Navigating my undergraduate experience has been full of ups, downs, laughter, studying, and so on. What I didn’t expect to find myself reflecting on however is some of the microaggressions that come with identifying as a womxn. Taking my SOC 140 class, the Sociology of Womxn, has opened my eyes more to the negative experiences I have had inside or outside of the classroom.
Beginning with my first year, you’re already somewhat doubted by some peers given your class standing. However, add identifying as a womxn to that and it’s almost as if it’s double the impact. I used to take a seminar class, which was optional, during my first year and was the only first-year student enrolled. Some of the other classmates commented that it was nice I had the initiative and they wish they would have done what I did as a first-year. Then, one of the male students in the seminar suggested that we could “kick it” if I ever needed any help. I declined of course, but leaving it so vague was definitely a red flag to me especially that he was an upperclassmen.
Additionally, during my first year, I had a hallmate tell me he thought I couldn’t keep a conversation up. When I asked what he meant, he said it was because whenever I talked it “lacked substance.” First of all, if someone tells you this…ask yourself why? Why does this person think they have a right to dictate your conversation to fit their standards? Then immediately question them as to why it matters so much.
Regardless of your gender, no one should believe they have the power to control what you talk about or deem it intelligent enough for their liking.
Third-year was filled with being pushed at concerts then being called a b*tch for pushing back. Fourth-year…I guess being at home has made things slightly better.
Overall, I guess this was just a share of my experiences and how I learned to handle these negative experiences based on my gender. When you’re faced with a situation that makes you feel doubtful, ask for clarification. “What did you mean,” “why is that funny,” and so on. Most of the time, the answers aren’t usually good ones, so it can make you feel like the attention is off of you and make the person realize how ridiculous they sound.