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Study Abroad Programs Office at Texas A&M places health and safety first on all of our sponsored programs. We have put together many steps of preparation that we hope minimize any threats of safety for our students. However, it is difficult to account for the inevitable, and as in all cases, the participants must rely upon their collective experience and judgement while considering unique circumstances that could not have been anticipated. In addition to the information below, students participating on programs through our office also are provided with a student handbook that has additional information. Insurance First and foremost, make sure that you have sufficient health and accident insurance for the entire period you are out of the US. For students not participating in programs with insurance included, we advise that you research the travel provisions, especially Emergency Medical Evacuation (EME) and Repatriation of Remains (RR) of your current insurance, and make sure that you understand both the coverage and the procedures to follow if something should occur. If your existing insurance doesn't cover EME and RR, or if you want supplemental coverage, you should seek out insurance options. Here are links to a few of these providers. We encourage students traveling abroad to purchase the International Student Identification Card, which provides basic coverage insurance for the student, along with several other benefits. Please be aware that the ISIC is a basic secondary coverage and that having a primary insurance coverage is a very good idea. For students who go on programs conducted through Texas A&M Study Abroad, we also issue another form of insurance which covers several things not covered by the ISIC. Using Your Common Sense Keep a low profile in demeanor and dress. Don't wear expensive jewelry. Be especially mindful to be polite and observe signs and regulations in public areas. When you are traveling alone for a few days, always carry some cash - at least - $50 in case of emergency. In the great cities of the world pedestrians do not have the right-of-way (unlike the US). Look both ways before you cross a street (for example, traffic will come from your right in the UK), and use crosswalks when available. Travel by the local means of transportation. Never hitchhike. Have a guidebook and map with you, and know where the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate is. Travel with at least one other person when you are on your own. Before you leave you must give your itinerary (in writing) to the person in charge of your program (including destination, mode of travel, date and time of return, and travel companions). Your host institution, travel agents, and tourist centers have a vested interest in your well being, and will be able to help you in many cases. Remember that you will be "a stranger in a strange land," and no matter how hard you try to conceal it, your naïveté will be obvious. Be cautious and keep your wits about you, just as you would in any large or unfamiliar city. Keep your doors locked, your luggage close to you, and stay aware of your surroundings. Demeanor, Dress, Etc. In the US, we are accustomed to dressing casually for many situations. However, this is inappropriate for many locations you will visit overseas, especially churches and state buildings. Sundresses, halters, and shorts are not appropriate for these occasions. In general, dressing conservatively will help to protect you from unwanted attention and misunderstandings. A word to the wise: What we'd consider mild flirtation is taken seriously in many cultures. Please be conscious of your body and verbal language. For more information about how to prevent being a victim abroad, please refer to our How to Avoid Looking Like a US Tourist and Making it Harder to Rob You While Abroad.
Health Before you travel, you should check with your doctor for recommendations concerning inoculations that may be necessary or suggested for any countries you may visit. If you are taking prescription medication, be sure you have an ample supply for your entire stay and make sure that all medication (including over-the-counter drugs) is clearly labeled and in its original container. It is also wise to carry a copy of the original prescription with you if you are on prescription medication. If you have any chronic medical conditions or allergies which require special medication or continuing medical treatment, you need to check with your doctor to ensure that your special needs can be met while you are away. If you have any psychological or emotional concerns which might affect your or others' well-being during the trip, it is your responsibility to inform the involved parties (program sponsors, roommates) of these before you depart on the program, and to make arrangements to prevent any interference with the group's plans. Also, as always, you must be aware of your risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. Complete abstinence from high-risk behaviors is of course your best protection, but as an adult it is your responsibility to protect yourself in whatever activities you choose.
References : U.S. State Department; Survival Kit for OverSeas Living, L. Robert Kohls; Training for the Cross-cultured Mind, Pierre Casse; Going International, Lennie Copeland, Lewis Griggs Links to Many Safety Related Web Sites:
Links to Health Related Sites:
International Insurance Providers:
Travel Safety Gear::
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