So I'm beginning my first year of college but the name I filled out on my collegiate forms is still my female legal name. I clearly present as male and was dreading to have to raise my hand when my professors would call for me. I asked my girlfriend if she could ask her sister to help me write a letter for my professors before the semester begins that could be written in a mature and in the utmost respectable tone and mannerism. Her sister is attending law school so I figured she would word it perfectly and to my surprise, she did above and beyond what I expected. So for anyone who is having trouble with wording a situation I thought I would share the letter. Feel free to alter it to whatever you would like, whether it is to teacher, co worker, boss, or whoever else you'd like to notify about your specific situation.
Dear [blank]
I am writing this letter to address a delicate subject. Throughout my life [OR HOWEVER LONG] I have been struggling with something known as gender identity disorder and I identify strictly as male. However, the process of changing my name and gender with the state proves to be a long and difficult one. Because of this I am requesting that my professors[OR WHOEVER] refer to me as [NAME], which is what my name will eventually be legally changed to. I was unable to use this name to fill out collegiate forms [OR ANY OTHER FORMS] because it is not yet legal, which is why you will see my name listed as [YOUR FEMALE LEGAL NAME] on your roll sheets [OR ANY OTHER FORMS]. I would very much appreciate being referred to as [NAME] when called for roll or class participation [OR ANY OTHER ADDRESSED SITUATIONS]. I am hoping you are able to understand this difficult situation and will be able to accommodate me. I am excited to begin college and a new chapter and look forward to the challenges [YOU MAY ALTER OR DELETE THIS SENTENCE]. Thank you for your understanding and please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely, [NAME]
