Remember you are ultimately responsible for the choices you make regarding your safety. Many places abroad are safer than the U.S., but your lack of familiarity with the culture, language and people may put you at higher risk.

Travel safety starts with careful reading of the U.S. State Department Travel Advisories before you leave the country. These are available on the web at http://travel.state.gov/, or you can listen to them by calling the Office of Overseas Citizens Service at (202) 647-5225. Enroll in the Smart Traveler program.

Find out about entry requirements for the countries you plan to visit. The Off-Campus and International Study Office can help.