The Hatchet’s editorial board discusses some of the lessons learned from a recent incident involving GW students in Ethiopia.

We don’t blame the circumstances of the arrest on the volunteers, but the lesson here is one all who study abroad should know. While going through a U.S.-based – even a GW-based – program may mean less hassle, it does not necessarily mean less preparation. Students must thoroughly research their projected destination and the region they will inhabit, especially when studying in underdeveloped or politically tumultuous countries.