Dear GEO Students,
We trust that this email finds you safe and enjoying your study abroad experience. As many of you are aware, a disturbing situation occurred in Brussels, Belgium this morning. News reports state that there have been explosions at the Brussels airport and a subway station with numerous casualties. We are deeply saddened by these events. Our thoughts are with all of you and the people of Belgium.
It is important that you reach out, right away, to family or others who might be concerned about your well-being. They will want to know that you are safe. Please be in touch with your on-site staff and support network if you have concerns.
We recommend that you carefully consider all travel decisions throughout the week, and delay any planned travel to Brussels until this situation is resolved. It will be important to consult your on-site staff, before you travel, about your specific situation and location.
As a reminder, when situations of this kind occur it is important to:
– Remain vigilant, be cognizant of your surroundings and maintain situational awareness.
– Avoid any areas affected by this situation.
– Communicate your travel plans with your on-site staff and your homestay family (if applicable).
– Allow for extra time if using mass transit due to increased security measures.
– Consult the US Department of State website for advice to students abroad by visiting the following link: http://travel.state.gov/content/studentsabroad/en.html.
Our thoughts are with all of you. The GEO staff in Eugene, Oregon and at our international locations are available to assist should you have any concerns.
Sincerely,
Kathy Poole, GEO Executive Director
Jena Turner, GEO Director of Global Education
Luis Ruiz, GEO Assistant Director
Hiroe Sorter, GEO Assistant Director for Administration