I guess it’s a legacy of the war on terror. However, I have not heard of an incident among the many students I know who have lived abroad when they were harmed or injured.  I guess if you are alert and aware of your circumstances at all times, you shouldn’t have any dangerous encounters.

Also, if you go overseas with a reputable and knowledgeable company, they should have safety measures in place for emergency evacuation should the need arise. I have heard of incidents of high school study abroad students being pulled out of countries that had become dangerous – in the eyes of the program directors.  I have also heard of programs being cancelled for political reasons or public safety reasons.

The advice that I offer here is common sense, but I will mention it anyway because common sense isn’t always so common. Now, here are my words to the wise:

1)    Avoid any high crime areas.

If you live with a host family, they will automatically tell you where those areas are and warn you to stay away from them. You can also ask other students, the locals, etc. Many of us have an instinctive awareness of when we are in an area with rampant violence and crime.  

2)    Dress conservatively.

Women, no short shorts, no miniskirts. This mode of dress is not appropriate in many places throughout the world.  

3)    Don’t flash money when out in public.

4)    Check with the State Department and the CDC concerning any safety issues or health advisories in the area you will study abroad in.

5)    Avoid High-Risk Activities

No skiing without a helmet, no mountain climbing, no bungee jumping. I think you get the picture. You want this to be a life-changing event, but you want a positive occurrence, not a negative one!

6)    Travel only on public conveyances that are safe or with drivers you know and trust.  

7)    Make sure to get a complete and thorough physical examination before you go abroad. This is particularly important if you are going on a year program. Also visit your dentist before your travels.

8)    Know what to do in case of emergency. Don’t be caught unprepared. Know where your local hospital is. Know who to call in cases of emergency. Does your program have a local liaison?  Of course, these matters are simpler if you are living in a homestay situation.

9)    Make sure you have medical insurance which covers you overseas. Also get 24-hour emergency assistance including emergency evacuation back to the states.

10)    Learn how to move around independently in your city.

11)    If you have a cell phone that you can use internationally, keep it with you at all times. You never know when you might need it.

12)    HS programs usually have liaison, monthly retreats, regular group meetings, etc. They do this as another safeguard to check on the well-being of their younger students.

Just use common sense when thinking about thinking about study abroad and public safety. Now let's look at som teach abroad tips.