One of our primary concerns is the health and safety of students while abroad. Studying abroad is neither safer nor more dangerous than studying within the U.S. The same acts 
that happen abroad can happen in the U.S. While every effort is made to ensure safety, Purdue cannot guarantee the safety of the participants or eliminate all the risk that is involved. Purdue cannot prevent students from engaging in illegal, dangerous, unwise activities or monitor or control all the daily personal decisions, choices and activities of each participant. Most of the student’s safety depends on their level of maturity, the decisions that are made, and responsibility. IPIA provides a required orientation for students to learn about the health and safety precautions that should be taken. The best way students can prepare for a healthy and safe study abroad experience is to inform themselves about basic information before leaving. Here are some resources about health and safety overseas:
Physical Exams
Although immunizations are not required for most programs, every study abroad participant should discuss overseas travel immunization recommendations with their personal physician. The national Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends polio, tetanus and diphtheria boosters. It is recommended to have dental, eye and physical check-ups before going abroad. The Purdue Student Health Center provides exams, inoculations, and prescriptions. A medical information form that is handed out at orientation must be completed and submitted to IPIA.
Prescription Drugs
Bring any necessary medications and keep them in the original, labeled containers. Take the amount of prescription needed while abroad. Make sure all medications are in a carry-on. If wearing glasses or contact lens, it would be wise to take the lens prescription as well as an extra pair of glasses or lenses.
Alcohol
While the drinking age may be lower, the laws more lenient, or the cost cheaper in the host country than in the States, it is important to remember the risks involved. Even in countries where social drinking is the norm on a daily basis, it is never safe or acceptable to “binge” drink. Remember the defenses are down when drinking.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual Harassment can be defined as any unwanted sexual advances from anyone with power over any aspect during the overseas experience. Sometimes it is difficult to evaluate whether or not students have been harassed or if it is a matter of cultural differences. For example, Americans sometimes react with discomfort to the normal conversational distance between people in a culture they are exploring, and they should be aware of their feelings within that context. However, no one, male or female, studying abroad should have to suffer from unwelcome sexual pressure.
CISI Insurance Plan
All study abroad participants are automatically insured through Cultural Insurance Service International (CISI), a Purdue group medical insurance policy. 
The cost for this insurance is included in the program fee. A description of medical benefits is in the orientation packet.
If students have a claim, they will need to complete the medical claim form indicating whether the doctor/hospital has been paid. The original itemized bills need to be included with the form. Payment will be given in U.S. dollars unless it is noted otherwise. The form needs to be sent to CISI, River Plaza, 9 West Broad Street, Stamford, CT 06902-3788. CISI can be reach by email at evetrano@culturalinsurance.com or 203-399-5130.
Students studying in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and France are covered by insurance, which is mandatory for the country in which they study.
Also included in the program fee is the cost of an International Student Identity Card. This card entitles the bearer to certain discounts while abroad and provides additional insurance coverage. It covers emergency evacuation, repatriation of remains, accident medical expense, accidental death and dismemberment, baggage delay, etc. During orientation, student will receive the information regarding the card.
Culture Shock
Learn about culture shock.
Precautions
Take precautions overseas just as you would here in America.
International Emergency Contact
Check out the international emergency contact to know what number to call when '911' is needed.
Emergency Contact Information
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International Programs in Agriculture
765-494-6876
Purdue Police
765-494-8221
Linda Vallade
Office: 765-494-9690
Home: 765-474-6647
Cell: 765-532-1689
Kara Hartman
Office: 765-494-8458
Cell: 812-592-7412 |
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