Conflict in Iran postpones Study Abroad trip

Amid escalating tensions tied to the current war with Iran, the College of Arts and Humanities postponed its spring break study abroad trip to Egypt. 

On March 2, a representative of the U.S. State Department issued a notice via socail media for American citizens to “depart via commercial means due to serious safety risks” from 14 Middle Eastern countries, including Egypt. Dean of College of Arts and Humanities Dr. Michael Thrasher explained the thought process behind the postponement of the trip.  

“This directive prompted us to reconsider sending any university personnel to Egypt at this time,” Thrasher said. “Study abroad and international experiences for students are major priorities for the university. 

“We want our students to have the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures, as this greatly enhances their education. However, the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff will always be our highest priority.” 

According to Thrasher, dates for the rescheduled trip are not finalized, but the college is exploring a potential departure of May 21. If conditions are not deemed safe at that time, he said the college will reassess and consider further delays or cancellation. 

Ty Davidson, a sophomore broadcast journalism major from Springville, Alabama, said he was not surprised by the delay.  

“Before the trip was officially postponed, I had heard there was a strong chance the university would not allow us to travel over spring break,” Davidson said. “With that and the global situation in mind, I wasn’t shocked, I was just disappointed. 

“We had already held our pre-trip meeting and received our luggage tags, so having it canceled a week before departure was especially frustrating.” 

Jimmy Nichols, a junior broadcast journalism major from Prattville, Alabama, expressed similar feelings.  

“It was disappointing because I had already taken off work and prepared for the trip, but at the same time, I was getting worried about the situation in the region, so I understand the delay,” Nichols said. 

Despite not spending his break overseas, Davidson said he was still able to enjoy his time off. 

“Over spring break, I went home and spent time with family and friends I don’t often see in Troy,” Davidson said. “I mostly relaxed and honestly needed it after a stressful semester. 

“I’m excited to hopefully go to Egypt in May, but I’m just as happy to have ten days to do nothing right now.” 

While the delay has been disappointing, the trip is still something students can look forward to — just on a different timeline.