“I Hold the Key to the Cage and Nothing Can Keep Me There Without My Permission”: Exploring Gender Identity through Identity Journey Mapping in a Study Abroad Program

This study examines the exploration of gender identity among U.S. college students, using identity journey mapping conducted during a study abroad program. Drawing from the framework of gender as a social construct and intersectionality, this article demonstrates how educators allow students to negotiate and express their gender identity in both visual maps and written narratives. The findings suggest that identity journey mapping serves as a valuable pedagogical tool for exploring gender identity in the classroom.