Emergency back home while abroad

 

Life does not stop while you are gone. Tragedies, mishaps, and changes, big and small, will happen while you are gone. While abroad, I received a message that my mother was rushed into emergency surgery. It was hours until I was able to figure out what exactly happened. It is important to remain calm in situations like these. Your initial reaction may be to get on an airplane and go back home to those you love, but it is important to remain calm and let someone know what is going on. Be transparent with faculty so that they can better assist you. In times like these, you will need support no matter how strong or together you may think you can handle stressful situations. If possible, rally a support system back home that you know you can call to get you through tough times such as these. Remember to take time to breathe and figure out your emotions before boarding a long plane ride back home. Talk to the people around you and try your best to distract yourself, as there will be things out of your control.