Study abroad is arguably more important than ever before. This is alongside the reality that in the recent several months we have witnessed violent acts erupting in various parts of the world including within our own borders. We are grateful that no Purdue-WL students were affected by these tragic attacks overseas even as we are sympathetic to those who are suffering.
Safety and security of students is our highest priority. While we continue to monitor worldwide situations, we are also confident in the support of our partnering staff for the information and care that they provide to students.
This is another poignant reminder that everyday decisions made by students abroad are of tantamount importance to their safety and well-being. We continue to encourage students to heed the advice of Purdue professors in program leadership and/or program staff on-site. Further, we would echo the advice of the US State Department, including wisdom that U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance in public transportation systems, high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, shopping malls, and other tourist destinations. Similar advice has been referenced in numerous back-to-back Worldwide Caution statements over the past many years, so personal vigilance is as important as ever.
Please know that study abroad programs will continue as planned, coupled with prudent steps for risk mitigation. Students should feel comfortable discussing any questions or concerns with program leadership. Some students may wish to consider purchasing trip interruption or trip cancellation insurance in case of voluntary or involuntary withdrawal. The Purdue University Office of Programs for Study Abroad has a web page dedicated to Safety & Health resources website resources plus I would welcome direct communications if useful.
We wish the over 2,000 Purdue students who will study abroad in 2017 all success, coupled with confidence that significant planning is in place.
Respectfully,
Brian D. Harley, Ph.D.