UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Members of the University community should be sure to follow common-sense guidelines while traveling over Spring Break, according to Mauricio Jimenez, global safety director, Penn State Global.
“Spring Break is a time for relaxation, adventure and fun! We hope all Penn Staters have an incredible experience while they’re away,” Jimenez said. “At the same time, staying responsible and mindful of their choices ensures that every memory made is a great one.”
The U.S. Department of State has a list of security advisories, and it is always appropriate to remain vigilant, Jimenez said.
Jimenez reminds all Penn Staters to keep these best practices in mind:
- Drink alcohol responsibly and in accordance with local laws.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
- Stay hydrated.
- Stick to designated "hotel zones" and avoid secluded areas.
- Travel with a trusted friend or in groups.
- Keep valuable items discreet to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
- Respect personal boundaries and be cautious about sharing personal information.
- Maintain both digital and physical copies of essential documents.
- Note local emergency contacts, including international equivalents of "911."
- Research your destination thoroughly and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Know the location of your home country's embassy/consulate and register for STEP.
For international faculty, staff and students who are planning to travel abroad in the near future, Penn State Global strongly recommends coordinating with International Student and Scholar Advising to confirm that all necessary visa and re-entry documentation are up to date, said Jimenez. Ensuring compliance with current immigration regulations will help mitigate potential challenges upon return to the United States.
During travels, there may be increased law enforcement or military presence. These measures are often implemented to ensure safety, said Jimenez, and should not overly be cause for concern.
“We hope everyone enjoys their spring break adventures,” Jimenez added.
All University-affiliated travel must be registered within the Global Safety Network. To register travel, visit gsn.psu.edu.
For more information about issues of safety while traveling, contact Global Safety at globalsafety@psu.edu. For information for international/non-U.S. based immigration, contact International Student and Scholar Advising at issa-adviser@psu.edu.