Terrorism, Travel, and International Study

Lava

Life has changed in the United States since the events on September 11, 2001.

Many individuals continue to be anxious, especially about travel, and a number of questions have been raised about the impact of terrorism on study abroad programs. Is study abroad safe? Are there risks? What does Lycoming College recommend? These are questions that should be asked by every student who is contemplating education abroad programs. This is a summary of thoughts that attempt to answer those questions.

  1. At Lycoming College we are concerned about world events. We will continue to monitor developments in the United States and overseas. At present no Lycoming College programs of study abroad have been cancelled, and we have no plans at this time to cancel them.
  2. All of the program directors where Lycoming College students are currently studying have been in contact with us to assure us that they are providing increased emotional support for our students while also monitoring their safety. We encourage our students to stay in touch with their host institution officials who have access to local information.
  3. A primary source in making program security decisions is the U.S. Department of State. You can access this information on line at http://travel.state.gov. An especially helpful link offering tips for students and student advisors is http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/safety/safety_2836.html.
  4. While we believe that increased safety measures are now in effect, we must also acknowledge that life is not risk-free. Thus, every student who partipates in education abroad programs through Lycoming College has to sign a release of liability form. Please know, however, that this is the same form that was used prior to September 11, and it is the same form that all of our students sign in order to participate in athletic events, field trips, and other school-sponsored activities that involve travel away from campus.
  5. Shortly after the tragic events of September 11, Lycoming College President Dr. James Douthat issued a statement to all students, faculty, and staff. Part of what he said was that although "the weeks, months, and perhaps even years ahead are not likely to be 'business as usual,' . . . we cannot allow the diminution of our lives to occur because of new fears presented by the cruel and cowardly." President Douthat went on to say that "through wars and natural disaster America's colleges have strived to continue their educational missions and programs. We pray that events of each day will not cause us to postpone any activities, but they might."
  6. At Lycoming College, our approach to study abroad is to continue to promote it. We want our students to have positive, enriching study abroad experiences, and we believe that it is still possible for them to do so and to be safe. We will continue to monitor current conditions and, if necessary, we will make prudent changes in our recommendations. In the meantime, students should feel welcome to bring their concerns and their questions to us.

Sincerely,

Dr. Barbara F. Buedel

Coordinator of Study Abroad