The future of Penn State students going abroad in the spring remains uncertain in the aftermath of America's war against terrorism and the nation's conflict with foreign powers overseas.

"We have not decided to close the program," said John Keller, director of International Education Programs and Studies (IEPS). "But student welfare is our most important concern."

In response to recent telephone and e-mail messages from parents and students expressing concern about the security ramifications of Penn State's international academic programs, Keller sent out a mass e-mail on Sept. 27 to explain the situation.

"Not having a window into the future, we are not sure if this situation will last," Keller wrote in the e-mail. "However, we promised students that we will continue to monitor the international scene and to make arrangements to ensure their safety if the situation warrants."

IEPS developed a series of six guidelines to clarify its position to students, parents, faculty and staff associated with the program.

"So far our interpretation of the situation has not warranted closing programs or recalling students," Keller wrote. "This may change, however, and, if it does, we will move quickly and expeditiously to ensure the security of our students."

IEPS also will continue to consult with a variety of informational sources, such as the U.S. Department of State public announcements and travel advisories, in making its decision.

Keller also plans to stay in close touch with the program coordinators at its overseas sites.

"These international contacts are our primary 'eyes on the ground,' letting us know how students are faring and alerting us to potential problems," he said.

Students have the freedom to choose whether they want to remain on the IEPS programs.

"We ask students who decide to leave one of our programs to make sure they let us know as soon as possible about their decision, so that we can make appropriate administrative arrangements," the e-mail explains.

So far, out of 230 students currently overseas, only two decided to come back to the states.

"Right now, I am going to Australia in the spring," said Matt Gallagher (junior-business logistics and international business). "However, if things continue to develop and there is a global conflict, then I'm not going."

While other students also are preparing to pack their bags for next semester, many understand IEPS's plight.

"It bothers me that I might not be able to go, but if they let us go it will be safe," said Jocelyn Brown (junior-English), who's scheduled to go to Italy. "This makes us a lot more cautious about traveling. We have to remember that Americans in other countries doesn't mean what it used to."

Brown received an e-mail yesterday regarding a question-and-answer session about the program.

Another issue being raised is how the situation will affect students' decisions to go abroad next year.

"There is still a steady interest," Keller said, citing that there were between 175 and 200 students in attendance at the Oct. 4 IEPS fair.

"The current situation could affect some decisions, but if students see those of us who are going abroad this spring come back fine, then it won't be a problem," Gallagher said.

Samantha Wechsler (junior-architect) expressed more concern about flying to Italy then the situation of actually being there.

"If you restrict what you want to do or go in life because of fear then the opposition wins," she said.