GVSU cancels study abroad trips to China

Three of Grand Valley's study abroad programs to China have been canceled or postponed because of the SARS outbreak in East Asia. More than 2,600 people worldwide have been stricken by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, a flu-like illness.

Mark Schaub, interim assistant dean of International Education, said the decision was made after consultations with health professionals and other universities. Below are details about the canceled/postponed programs:

Social work trip with Professor Douglas Chung scheduled for April 24-May 9 is postponed until December. Students unable to travel in December will be refunded their money, or can join another study abroad program.

Philosophy trip with Professor Ge Ling Shang was scheduled for May 6-16 is canceled. Shang may offer the course at a different destination, or students have the option of joining another study abroad trip.

School of education trip with Professor Antonio Herrera was scheduled for July 5-August 12. This trip is canceled. Students who need to complete an education practicum can join another spring/summer study abroad program.

A May 29-June 30 trip to Taiwan is still planned, but Schaub said staff members and the professor are monitoring the situation.