**Sent to students studying abroad**
Dear Students and Families,
On March 2, we shared an update on coronavirus, or COVID-19, and its effects on study abroad. That email explained that, with the exception of programs in Italy, all spring study abroad programs are continuing as planned. That guidance still stands. We have been in contact with our partner providers and they are still open and running classes. We are not recommending that study abroad programs end early or that students (outside of Italy) return to the United States at this time.
However, in light of recent CDC guidance and the continuing spread of COVID-19, we understand that some students may want to return home. We are prepared to advise students who choose to voluntarily return to the United States.
If you are considering this option, please contact the Study Abroad Office at (610) 758-3351 or studyabroad@lehigh.edu. We will work with you to develop an individual plan to minimize disruption of your studies (to the degree possible). It is very important that you do not make travel arrangements until you have spoken with the Study Abroad staff. Without an individual plan, we can’t make any guarantees regarding the best ways to finish your semester courses or the availability of campus housing.
Lehigh will have more options to assist you stay on track academically the sooner you contact us. Depending upon your study abroad program, you may have the option to continue all courses remotely. We are also prepared to discuss other Lehigh options this semester, summer, or next academic year on campus.
All students who want to return to Lehigh must first receive approval from the Lehigh University Health and Wellness Center. Once you notify us that you are planning to return to Lehigh, medical staff from the Health Center will contact you to review your recent travel history and current symptoms for follow up guidance.
If you have any questions, you can contact our office at (610) 758-3351.
Regards,
Katie
Katie Radande
Director, Study Abroad, Lehigh University