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Paris Attacks Have Some Reconsidering Plans To Study Abroad

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- A study released on Monday, shows that the semester abroad option is growing in popularity. There are more than 300,000 Americans studying abroad in France and other countries.

As CBS2's Carolyn Gusoff reported, in the wake of the terror attacks in France, some are rethinking their plans.

"It's a really scary time for study abroad, because I'm the study abroad lady it's a good opportunity for them," Shannon Harrison, Adelphi University Center for International Education, said.

Adelphi students abroad are all safe, but in a room filled with many planning semesters overseas there is a heightened sense of "what if."

"My parents are very scared of it, but I think anything can happen at any time, and if you sit back you will miss out," Jamie Ahrens said.

Ahrens is planning a semester in Australia. She is among the 300,000 American college students who study across the globe. Recently released numbers showed an increase of 5 percent.

Cathy Kennely's son Jack is taking his sophomore semester in Berlin. She is well aware that terror can strike anywhere, but is resolute.

"You gotta live your life. yes there is concern, yes I'm apprehensive," she said.

College consultant Andy Lockwood has been fielding calls from frantic parents. He advises them to stay the course.

"I would tell them look at the statistics, and the chances of being involved in something horrible are still incredibly slim, and I wouldn't let that dictate a decision about whether to go abroad or not," Lockwood said.

Many parents said they are worried sick about their children studying abroad in countries across Europe and beyond, and are reconsidering plans for next semester. Some were too jittery to appear on camera for fear of reprisal.

Study abroad directors said they follow State Department guidelines and partner with local governments in host countries. They have told students to be extra vigilant.

"It's a different world, students need to be safe and listen to the rules, they matter," Harrison said.

Harrison added that it has always taken guts to study abroad, even more so now.

 

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