Fanshawe’s International Office wants students to know that they can still access resources to global opportunities and plan for future travel.
It’s been a disappointing year for students who had been hoping to take advantage of Fanshawe’s exchange opportunities. COVID-19 has led to the cancellation of the college’s various study abroad and global internship programs.
International Projects and Exchange Coordinator, Caitlin Smith said calling off the programs was a difficult, but necessary, decision.
“Emotionally, it was hard, just because I believe so fully in the value of studying abroad and what it can do for students,” said Smith. “But really, when you look at what’s going on in terms of the pandemic, the insurance concerns, the safety concerns, and just the instability right now, it makes sense.”
Some of the programs that were temporarily shelved include:
Fanshawe student, Brodie Wheldrake, in Switzerland.
- International field studies
- Fall semester exchanges
- 2020 short-term summer programs
- Fall semester placements and co-ops
Smith added that she was incredibly proud of the response from students, who she said understood the reasons for cancelling the study abroad program.
“They all recognize why the program was being canceled and they recognize that Fanshawe had their best interest in mind,” she said.
Staying in line with government restrictions
The government of Canada has advised Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.
The best way to protect yourself, your family and those most at risk of severe illness from COVID-19 in our communities is to choose to stay in Canada. Contact your airline or tour operator to determine options for cancelling or postponing your trip.
Many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions, such as movement restrictions and quarantines. Many airlines have reduced or suspended flights and many airports have closed.
-Government of Canada website
Smith said the International Office is following the guidelines laid out by the government as they navigate travel restrictions for students. She added, however, that she is staying in communication with colleges overseas to arrange possible plans for future study abroad opportunities.
“There’s a lot of talk, like, we’re in constant communication with our partners overseas, to see how they’re handling COVID in their region and how they’re handling their mobility program,” she said. “As soon as we’re confident that the experience will be positive, and the students will be safe, we will resume the program.”
Planning for the future
While it’s unlikely exchange programs will resume in the Winter term, Smith said students are still working with the International Office to coordinate plans for future opportunities.
“A few students who are going to be with us next year are hoping to be able to continue the opportunity then,” she said. “And a few who are graduating…still have goals to spend time abroad and to maybe look for work opportunities or just take a year when they’re able to go and travel.”
She said students can still access resources from the International Office, including:
- Advising services
- Immigration services
- Digital events
- Connecting international students with senior students
“So we’re definitely still here for students,” said Smith. “We’re just doing it in a different way.”
Smith hopes students will continue to plan for future travel opportunities, stating that studying abroad can contribute to their skill development, help with resume building, and lead to potential job opportunities.
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