On March 1, the Sam Houston State University study abroad program announced that all summer activities would be canceled due to the ongoing pandemic.
SHSU Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Christopher Maynard explained future plans for the study abroad program and the university’s alternative plans for the summer.
“The university’s decision to cancel study abroad programs was out of safety concerns due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, along with current travel restrictions/advisories across the globe,” Maynard said.
Currently, most countries are under the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory level three, which suggests reconsidering travel and four, suggesting not to travel at all.
“The Texas State University System does not allow students to travel to countries under Department of State advisory levels 3 and 4,” Maynard said. “As vaccines are becoming more available, the university is hopeful to see positive trends relating to travel restrictions and travel advisory levels to go back to levels 1 or 2.”
Although students will not be able to participate in the study abroad program, the university has found an alternative to emulate a similar experience.
Maynard mentioned that the university has options to participate in virtual study abroad programs including internships, domestic programs through the National Student Exchange and virtual programs.
SHSU hopes to begin sending students abroad again for the programs starting in fall 2021, but there is still uncertainty with the global pandemic evolving on a month-to-month basis.
For additional information on the SHSU study abroad program, contact the Office of International Programs at studyabroad@shsu.edu or make an appointment through Campus Connect.
