In the face of a pandemic that has practically brought the world to a halt, the CIIS moves ahead with plans for study abroad programs for the Spring semester. In fact, with the exception of New Zealand, Laurentians can be hopeful to study in different countries including Kenya, China and Denmark.

According to Dr. Marina Llorente, Hanson Associate Dean for International and Intercultural Studies and the convener of the SLU Student Safe Travel Committee,“CIIS is monitoring closely the situation with the pandemic in the city and country where each SLU off-campus program is located, as the safety of students is the most important priority for SLU. The Student Safe Travel Committee and CIIS staff are meeting regularly to assess the health risk of 2021 spring off-campus programs locations. We are in direct contact with our partner programs and/or SLU staff in those countries.  We are assessing risk to include a multitude of inputs and indicators that better inform the Student Safe Travel Committee on the safety of supporting students and staff in a particular region, country, and city.”

In the same vein, Dr. Matt Carotenuto, the coordinator for the Kenya program explained:“We have a wealth of experience and flexibility to rely on when planning for a safe semester.” Beginning in 1974, the Kenya program has been successfully planned over the years. Spring 2021 is no different. Dr. Carotenuto reiterated that SLU Student Safe Travel Committee is assessing any potential safety concerns related to off-campus travel.

“Students should expect to follow similar public health restrictions as in the US” advised Dr. Carotenuto. For the Kenya program, students can expect a near normal semester as the infection rates have been kept low across East Africa. In the words of Dr. Carotenuto, “Students should be prepared for a immersive and exciting experience in East Africa, while also being ready to take the extra precautions needed to ensure a safe and healthy semester.” Students are also encouraged to consume local news from their off-campus study location to be better informed.

Brenden Bready ‘22, one of the off-campus spring semester hopefuls, expressed that his main concern was the program being cancelled. However, Brenden is confident that St. Lawrence is doing the best to deliver an engaging experience away from campus. “I feel very safe as SLU has a good reputation…they have done this for so long.”

“I am looking forward to homestay experiences in different locations, to see different ways of life, the countryside vs the city.” Brenden said as we concluded our conversation, “I hope, I am able to go,” he added with a grin.

Most countries are increasingly opening up to foreign nationals. This is to say, many Laurentians can participate in a program of their choice, with less concern that the passport they hold may hinder their plans. However, students are encouraged to participate in the ongoing Study abroad information sessions as well as research about their unique circumstances.