Texas Tech students have access to safety and health resources while studying or interning abroad, with the commitment deadline for summer and Maymester programs set for March 1.
Whitney Longnecker, the director of study abroad, encourages students to research the country they will visit and prepare for their trip by attending a pre-departure orientation module on Blackboard.
While the university has safety procedures in place, Longnecker emphasizes the importance of students taking responsibility for their health and safety during their time abroad.
Students are advised to keep electronic copies of essential documents like passports and credit cards while in another country, as suggested by Longnecker.
Preparing for her time in Seville, Spain, Ella Petty ensured she had backup technology in case of emergencies, such as bringing a second phone to avoid being left without means of communication if her primary phone was stolen.
To stay connected while traveling, Petty highlights the significance of carrying extra adapters and chargers for cell phones, emphasizing the value of maintaining electronic copies of important documents.
Regarding health measures, Longnecker mentions that Tech study abroad participants must be covered by the university’s international insurance plan when traveling abroad.
In case of emergencies, students are encouraged to reach out to their in-person professors and staff first, with on-site support systems available for immediate care if needed.
Longnecker reminds students that the Texas Tech Code of Conduct applies during study abroad programs, cautioning that actions taken abroad may have consequences back on campus.
Understanding the culture of the host country is vital for a successful study abroad experience, Longnecker advises, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and trusting one’s instincts for safety.
Professor Lyombe Eko underscores Tech’s commitment to student safety, prioritizing it regardless of the location of the program.
In conclusion, Longnecker stresses the significance of preparation and research for a safe and enriching study abroad experience, highlighting that unfamiliarity does not equate to danger but requires additional awareness and understanding.