UCSC takes proactive approach to protecting students abroad

The deadly attacks in Paris present a big concern for universities with students in the capital of France. One of those universities is U.C. Santa Cruz. Thirteen U.C. Santa Cruz students are studying abroad in Paris and were in the city of lights when the series of attacks took place. The university said none of the students were at the six locations targeted by terrorists.

“They’ve all been contacted over the weekend and all are safe all are accounted for, they’ve been and classes are back in session,” said UCSC publicist, Guy Lasnier.

Classes are in session as usual at UCSC. The campus has about 1,000 international students studying on the Central Coast. Some, with close ties to France. Sarah Wilson Black lives about two hours outside of Paris and said she was shocked to learn about the attack after she returned from a weekend getaway.

“All of my friends were posting things about Paris. It always shocks me that innocent people can be like the targets, become victims of violence like that,” said Black.

Black’s family is ok. The university said it’s reached out to its 17 international students from Paris to check on how their families are doing, but hasn’t heard back yet. Counseling sessions are being offered to all students. Campus officials said students who study abroad are taught what to do in dangerous situations.

“They’re advised to shelter in place whenever there’s an incident like this. Avoid large crowds. There’s some students outside of Paris and they’ve been advised not to come into Paris,” said Lasnier.

While campus police said the university hasn’t received any threats, but they’re on alert.

“We do take student safety and our campus safety very seriously we do have a lot of patrols out 24/7,” said Chief Nader Oweis.

In December, campus police will do more active shooter training in the event of a gunman on campus.