Increased security for students studying abroad

SHARVON URBANNAVAGE MANAGINGEDITOR

With tensions rising throughout the world, study abroad students remain overseas to continue a once in a lifetime experience, which has now become even more so unique.

Cabrini currently has three students studying abroad in both Italy and Australia. Although not in the direct line of fire, these students are feeling the effects of the current conflict with Iraq whether or not they agree with decisions of the American government.

"I have changed some habits," junior Diana Moscariello said. "I don't wear anything with an American flag on it, and I also avoid a place here called 'Campo di Fiori,' because it is known as an American hang-out." Moscariello is now in Italy studying at the American University in Rome, where several security precautions have been issued to protect the safety of the students.

"Each institution has developed and has enforced its own security measures," Dr. Nicholas Uliano, study abroad program coordinator, said.

Even though prospects of war were forthcoming for some time, some students did not allow the current status of American foreign affairs deter them from pursuing a study abroad experience.

"Studying abroad during this time of tension was not really an issue for me. It was either now or never because junior year is the time to study abroad," Moscariello said. "I personally have not been subjected to any anti-American sentiments while I have been in Italy, but I know that it is out there so I try to be careful."

Anti-American sentiments are not uncommon while traveling or living overseas. Dr. Harold William Halbert, English professor, witnessed negative responses and heinous actions against Americans while living in Germany from the ages of four to eight. "I was very aware that we were Americans because on the [Army] base it was safe, but off the base, you really had to think about what you were doing."

Halbert, at a young age, witnessed the actions of a German terrorist group, in which an American general's car was blown up. "It was a bit of a culture shock when we returned to America. Over there you were an American. It wasn't about what part you were from, so it was weird when people here would ask."

However, Uliano does not want students to be reluctant about studying abroad in upcoming semesters. "Interest in the study abroad programs has not been affected by the current situation.

Over 15 students will be studying abroad during the 2003-04 academic year," he said. "Unless some unexpected event were to drastically change the world situation, student can and should feel comfortable in continuing to plan for their study abroad experience. Risk is certainly a part of everyday life. However, precautions may be taken in an effort to reduced that risk."

As for the students currently abroad, they will finish the semester overseas before coming back to America. "I have not considered coming home earlier because of the current war status. Unless something big happens, I will stay until I have planned," Moscariello, who is slated to return on May I 0, said.

Increased security procedures include:

• Premises are under 24-hour video surveillance. Students access the building only with new security cards.

• Uniformed guards are present at entrances.

• Advisories from the U.S. State Department are posted.

• Security briefings for the students are held on a regular basis.

• The students have an emergency university cell phone number which can be used after-hours.