COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of the travel industry this year.
On October 15th the study abroad program in Oviedo, Spain was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns and that the moment there is still no decision about programs in Japan.
Temple Update spoke with Education Abroad Manager of Outreach & Communication Suzanne Willever to find out what precautions the University is taking in order to maintain student’s safety abroad.
“For example, students going to Rome we’re asking to prepare to stay in the country and a little bit closer to home,” Willever said.
Willever also mentioned that Temple Rome is requiring all students to quarantine for two weeks upon their arrival.
The Coronavirus, however, isn’t stopping some students.
Junior Steve Peta says, “I mean I’m not too worried about it. I’ll still do sightseeing and I’ll still love being there.”
“When we get there, we have to quarantine for two weeks, so that’s fine. I was expecting to do that anyway,” said sophomore Kyla Jackson.
Other study abroad offices are also deciding if a virtual experience would be worthwhile to students if abroad classes are moved online.
Klein Global Opportunities Director Allie Miller says, “If you traveled to Spain but everything was going to be virtual, are you really going to get the same experience you would? Is it going to be worth your time and money, monetarily and academically?”
“Right now, people have to have backups and contingencies and that realistic mindset that yes, I would like to go but I need to plan for something else,” said Miller.
Kyla Jackson adds, “I literally bought my flight last week so it better be happening. I don’t want to waste my money and I really want to go through this experience.”
You can find the most up to date information about Education Abroad programs here.
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