In this edition of Spotlight On, Emily Rittenberg, co-founder of Being Well Abroad, discusses the crucial role of psychological flexibility in international education. She explains how this concept, derived from acceptance and commitment therapy, helps students manage distressing thoughts and emotions during their study abroad experiences. Emily emphasizes the importance of pre-departure mental health education and highlights the need for thorough staff training in mental health support and crisis management. By fostering a proactive approach to mental health, Emily aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for students, ultimately enhancing their resilience and overall experience abroad.

In this insightful edition of “Spotlight On,” we sit down with Allie Oberoi, the Associate Director for Global Safety and Risk Management at Virginia Tech, to explore the multifaceted challenges she faces while supporting student travel for research purposes. With a portfolio of approximately 4500 travelers annually, Allie shares her strategies for managing travel risk as a one-person operation.