Starting a new semester or school year comes with its own set of challenges—new classes, new faces, new bizarre rulings by federal judges, and new routines. If you’re a trans student, sometimes your birth name and other info may be the first thing your instructor sees on their roster. Nobody wants to be called the wrong name or misgendered! Whether you’re stepping into a classroom for the first time, continuing your education, or transitioning while in school, communicating your identity to make sure you are respected is key.
So how can you have that conversation? In this guide, we provide email templates that you can customize to fit your style and situation! Whether you’ve never met your professor or you’re several weeks into a course, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
Before Classes Start
Friendly and Upfront
Subject: Quick Heads-Up Before Classes Start
Hi Professor [Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m really excited about your class this semester. I wanted to give you a quick heads-up that I’m transgender. The name on the roster is [Birth Name], but I go by [Your Name] now, and I use [your pronouns]. I’d appreciate it if you could use those in class. If you have any questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!
Thanks so much, and see you soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
Warm and Personable
Subject: A Quick Introduction
Hi Professor [Last Name],
I’m really looking forward to your class this semester! Before we start, I wanted to share something important with you. My name is [Your Name], and I’m transgender. The roster might list me as [Birth Name], but I go by [Your Name] and use [your pronouns]. It would mean a lot to me if you could use these in class. I know that navigating names and pronouns can be a bit new, so I’m happy to help in any way I can.
Looking forward to meeting you!
Cheers,
[Your Name]
Casual and Direct
Subject: Name and Pronouns
Hey Professor [Last Name],
Hope you’re doing well! Just a quick note before class starts—I’m transgender, and my name is [Your Name] (the roster might say [Birth Name]). I use [your pronouns]. I’d appreciate it if you could update your records and use these in class.
Thanks a lot,
[Your Name]
After Classes Have Started
Personal and Appreciative
Subject: Quick Update on My Name
Hi Professor [Last Name],
I’ve really enjoyed your class so far! I wanted to let you know that I’m transgender, and my name is [Your Name] (the roster might list me as [Birth Name]). I use [your pronouns] and would appreciate it if you could use those moving forward. If there’s anything I can do to make this easier, just let me know!
Best,
[Your Name]
Open and Honest
Subject: Name and Pronouns Update
Hi Professor [Last Name],
I’ve been meaning to share this with you—I’m transgender, and I go by [Your Name] rather than [Birth Name], which is on the roster. I use [your pronouns]. I understand it might take a little time to get used to, and I really appreciate your effort in making this transition smooth for me. If it helps, I’m happy to chat more about it.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Easygoing and Polite
Subject: Name Change
Hi Professor [Last Name],
I hope you’re well! I wanted to give you a quick heads-up that I’m transgender. I now go by [Your Name] instead of [Birth Name], which is probably what’s on your roster. I use [your pronouns]. I’d really appreciate it if you could use those in class. Thanks so much, and if there’s anything else you need from me, feel free to reach out!
Thanks a lot,
[Your Name]
What If My Teacher Doesn’t Respect My Pronouns And Name?
If you have contacted your professor about your pronouns and name but they still do not honor your wishes, here are some steps you can take:
- Have a Follow-Up Conversation: Sometimes, a second conversation can help clarify the importance of using your correct pronouns and name. Approach the professor calmly and express how their actions impact you. You might say something like, “I wanted to follow up on our previous conversation about my pronouns and name. It’s really important to me that I’m addressed correctly, and I’d appreciate your support in this.“
- Seek Support from Campus Resources: Many schools have offices or resources for LGBTQ+ students, such as a diversity office, student support center, or LGBTQ+ resource center. They can offer advice, mediate the situation, or assist in addressing the issue with the professor.
- Document the Issue: Keep records of any instances where your pronouns or name were not respected. This can be an email to yourself summarizing what happened or putting it in a notebook and including the date and time frame it happened.This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue.
- Contact a Higher Authority: If a direct approach or campus resources don’t resolve the issue, consider reaching out to a department head, dean, or ombudsperson. Explain the situation and provide any documentation you have.
- Request a Different Class or Professor: If the situation does not improve and it is significantly affecting your academic experience, you might explore options for switching classes or professors, if possible
Communicating your identity can be an empowering step toward creating a comfortable classroom environment. Taking control of how you’re addressed is a powerful way to assert your identity and ensure that your academic experience is as affirming and inclusive as possible. If things get stressful, don’t forget to prioritize your self-care. Dealing with disrespect can be emotionally challenging. Seek support from friends, allies, or counseling services to help you navigate the situation and maintain your well-being. We hope this helps and wish you a fantastic school year!
