Article

BU extends study abroad deadline due to vacancies

Security has been increased because of the changed conditions in traveling
Gail Hoffer - Staff Writer

Due to the concerns of both students and parents during the “War on Terrorism,” there is still space available on a number of Binghamton University’s study abroad programs, and the application deadlines have been extended.

“Students or parents have concerns about traveling at this time,” said Katharine Krebs, director of the Office of International Programs.

According to Krebs, the Office of International Programs has been in contact with the people it runs its programs with. Security has been increased because of the changed conditions in traveling.

Junior English and sociology major Caitlin Smith is considering postponing her semester studying in London until next year.

“My mother grew up in a military family, and she has major concerns,” Smith said. “She made me realize there are a lot of things one must consider when studying abroad at a time like this. Some places are not necessarily the best places to go.”

Smith said London is considered by some to be the terrorist capital of the world and that there could be potential problems in being abroad during a time of war.

“The health care system in the UK is completely different. Suppose I needed an anthrax vaccine; it would be really difficult to get. Or suppose I needed a flight home. International flights are the first to be canceled.”

Despite the reluctance of some students to travel, many students still plan to study abroad next semester. The Nottingham program is full, and both the Lancaster and Turkey programs have an average number of students signed up, Krebs said. While programs to other places such as London and Northern Ireland are not full, students are still signing up.

“We have had a lot more people come in because they extended the deadline,” said senior English major, Rachel Bonsignore, peer advisor for the Office of International Programs. The new deadline is Nov. 15.

Some students currently overseas say they have not been affected too greatly by the events of Sept. 11.

“I know from working in International Programs that there is no difference in Europe. Programs this semester are having just as much fun as programs in the past,” said senior English major, Barbara Huber.

The Office of International Programs wants to assure everyone that there are no problems with studying abroad, Bonsignore said.

“The programs are in fairly safe countries, and there are information sessions available if students have questions,” said Bonsignore.

“I feel the terrorists want to keep you at home; if you don’t go anywhere, you’re letting them win,” Huber said.

Some students have withdrawn their applications for study abroad programs because of worries about traveling.

“I decided not to go because of the current global situation. It was the right decision for me at the time,” said Danielle Reich, a junior comparative literature major.