Health & Safety

Living and studying in another country and culture presents special challenges. The Office of Study Abroad and the Clery Compliance Division is committed to providing students with the tools and information necessary to have a safe and enriching study abroad experience. 

Click below for International Travel Threats:

Safety

  • Do not walk in unfamiliar areas of the city at night or accept rides from strangers.
  • Be careful with money and other expensive items in public.
  • The less you stand out the safer you will be.
  • Never leave your bags unattended. If anything is lost or stolen report it to the local police. It is also necessary to report the loss of travelers check to the nearest issuing office and passports to both the local police and then to the consulate to apply for a new one
  • Be sure your program director knows where you will be traveling and when, in case you must be contacted.

Cultural Issues & Perception

Don’t assume you know and understand the local culture. Try to learn about your host culture’s values, customs, popular culture, etc. as much as possible. Most people will experience some difficulties adjusting to their new country and culture. This is totally normal, and should be expected. Cultural adjustment comes in stages and people react differently to the changes. Try to look at things from their perspective. For every behavior you don’t understand, try to figure out what its underlying value is.

Sexual Harassment

Cultural difference in interactions on romantic or sexual levels can be a problem area - some behaviors might be very inappropriate in the US, but considered perfectly acceptable in the culture in which you are living, and vice-versa. Sexual harassment is a particularly difficult area because of the extreme variance in acceptable behavior between cultures. In some cultures it is difficult or impossible for non-sexual relationships to exist between men and women. Until one is fully aware of the cultural norms combined with the verbal and non-verbal clues that he or she is sending, one must be very mindful of the emotions and expectations that are evolving. You are encouraged to contact center staff to report any behaviors that you feel are sexually harassing. They will assist you in resolving the situation in a culturally appropriate way.

Compliance with Laws

When you are in a foreign country you are subject to its laws and not protected by U.S. laws. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. It is important that you learn about local laws and regulations and obey them. You are responsible for obeying all host countries laws and regulations, which can be both different and stricter than in the United States. Do not assume will be treated gently because you are an American. If you become involved in a legal problem, please contact center staff immediately. Please note, however, that it is unlikely that BOSP can intervene on your behalf if you are arrested for an illegal violation.

Do not use illegal drugs while you are abroad. Most countries have very strict drug laws and enforcement can result in prison sentences and even the death penalty. If you attend a party at which others are using drugs, leave immediately. If you are arrested for drugs, the US consular officer cannot get you released from jail.

Clery Report for Overseas Trips and Travel

In full compliance with the 1998 Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, Bridgewater State University has provided the most recent crime statistics reports for each of its overseas trips. It's important to report any crime while away to the Bridgewater State University Police Department. Please complete the "CSA Reporting Form" and submitted to the Clery Compliance Office , a division of the BSU Police.  The full Clery report is available on this website.