Most Days

 

Like with anyplace, misgendering happens. For me I’d say it’s been about 50%-60% percent of the time. However, I’m shy and don’t correct people, so most people don’t know I’m trans* unless told otherwise (usually by my less shy friends). Those that do know — the friends I’ve made at IES, the IES staff that knows, and my host-family — have all been super great and supportive!! I never sent an email to my professors about my trans* status (woops!) so only about half of them are aware of it. If you were to send your professors, they are all friendly and I’m sure would be supportive. Naturally Berlin has a large queer community. TrIQ is a good resource, and host many events for queer folk (international and local people alike). I’ve gone to some of their events. Still, there’s not much you can do about strangers. And, I’ve even had strangers walk up to me and asked, “Are you a boy or a girl?” Haha, a bit rude, but at least they’re unassuming. All in all, Berlins not a bad place to be trans*. It’s second, maybe, only to the love-of-my-life New Orleans!