Safety Abroad
The safety of college students who study abroad became a much bigger issue with a recent attack on University of Maryland students in Guatemala. While these events are always unfortunate and sometimes unpredictable, those planning to go abroad should know that they are a rare instance. According to study-abroad experts, students are more likely to be attacked or have an accident while at one's own campus in the U.S. than while abroad.

Although one can never fully prepare for something going wrong abroad, students can take pre-planned measures to stay safe. According to Dr. David Larsen, Ph.D. director of Beaver College's education-abroad program, a student's own diligence is most important. Dr. Larsen said that students should ask questions about the host college and country and be willing to research the current situations in the country. Dr. Larsen, who directs the placement of over 1,500 students in 62 programs, says that, in his experience, the students that have been susceptible to attacks in the past usually were not paying attention to their surroundings. Those that have a way out or know the dangers beforehand will usually avoid any confrontation.

Key resources
The U.S. State Department of Travel Warnings and Consultation Information give current travel situations and advice for countries throughout the world.
The Center for Disease Control gives details on epidemics and dangers.
www.webofculture.com gives information and links on appropriate manners and gestures in various countries throughout the world.