Health and Safety Abroad

Your Wellbeing Matters

 Your wellbeing is our highest priority. As you begin your first semester of college in a new country, you’ll have a strong network of support behind you, both in London and back home at Oxford College. This page explains the big‑picture approach to safety and wellbeing during your time abroad and helps you understand who to turn to when you need assistance.  

A Shared Commitment to Your Wellbeing 

Oxford Launch: London is designed with student safety, support, and personal wellness in mind. Oxford College and IES Abroad work together to provide: 

  • A safe and secure living environment 
  • Reliable access to health and mental health resources 
  • Staff support for daily living, adjustment, and emergencies 
  • Thoughtful programming to help you thrive academically and personally 

While studying abroad naturally brings new experiences and challenges, you’ll never be navigating them alone. 

Your Primary Support in London: IES Abroad 

The IES Abroad Student Services team is your main point of contact for everyday support in London. These professionals are trained in: 

  • Student wellbeing and mental health support 
  • Cultural adjustment and homesickness 
  • Navigating London safely and confidently 
  • Basic medical guidance and appointment coordination 
  • Housing concerns 
  • Community building and student engagement 

They are available throughout the semester and are experienced in supporting students who are living abroad for the first time. You can go to them with questions, concerns, or anything that affects your day-to-day experience. 

Think of IES staff as your local experts and first stop for any practical or personal support you may need while in London. 

Academic Connection & Continuity: Oxford Faculty in London 

Two Oxford College faculty members will live and teach in London, providing an academic anchor throughout your semester. They support you by: 

  • Providing academic guidance 
  • Checking in on your academic progress 
  • Helping you stay anchored in your first year curriculum 
  • Serving as your faculty adviser (for those enrolled in their Discovery Seminar) 
  • Offering a familiar Oxford presence abroad 

Their role complements, but does not replace, the student life support offered by IES Abroad. 

Together, Oxford and IES Abroad create a holistic support network tailored to both your academic and personal success. 

Health & Medical Support 

Students participating in Oxford Launch: London are covered by two layers of international insurance and assistance: 

Emory’s International Travel Insurance (Coordinated through International SOS) 

Emory provides emergency medical and evacuation coverage for all Emory sponsored international travelers. The coverage is issued by ACE American Insurance Company / Chubb Group and coordinated through International SOS, Emory’s global medical and security assistance provider.  

International SOS offers: 

  • 24/7 medical, mental health, and security assistance 
  • Help locating or accessing medical care 
  • Emergency support and coordination 
  • Guidance for travelers in urgent situations 
CISI Insurance through IES Abroad 

IES Abroad provides additional insurance for enrolled students, which includes: 

  • Doctor visits and routine medical support abroad 
  • Mental health counseling resources 
  • Emergency services and referrals 

More information on how to access medical care, find providers, and use your insurance coverage will be provided in Canvas and at IES Abroad’s on-site orientation. 

TimelyCare (24/7 Virtual Emotional Support) 

All Emory University students, whether in the U.S. or abroad, have free, 24/7 access to TimelyCare’s TalkNow service. TalkNow connects you on-demand with mental health professionals for immediate emotional support, whether you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to. 

More information about using TimelyCare during your semester abroad will be provided in Canvas and at Oxford Launch Pre‑Orientation. 

Academic & Emotional Wellbeing 

Studying and living abroad is exciting but it can also be emotionally complex. It is perfectly normal to experience moments of: 

  • Adjustment or culture shock 
  • Homesickness 
  • Fatigue 
  • Stress or anxiety 
  • Difficulty settling into a routine 

IES staff, Oxford faculty, and the Global Oxford team are all here to support you. Students are encouraged to reach out early if they’re feeling overwhelmed, or if the transition feels more difficult than expected. Support is available throughout the semester, and many students find that talking through challenges helps them adjust more smoothly. 

Safety in London 

London is a major global city with robust systems for resident and visitor safety. Oxford and IES work together to help students navigate the city confidently. Before departure and during on‑site orientation, you’ll learn: 

  • Tips for navigating public transportation 
  • Strategies for personal safety in a large city 
  • How to travel smartly and stay aware 
  • Local norms and expectations 
  • How to contact IES staff if you need help 

Students often share that London feels accessible, manageable, and welcoming once they settle in. 

Emergency Support 

In the unlikely event of an emergency, you will have multiple layers of support: 

  • IES Abroad 
  • Local emergency services 
  • International SOS 
  • Emory/Oxford College 

 You will review this information during pre‑departure training and again during IES orientation in London. Canvas will also provide instructions, important phone numbers, and clear procedures for what to do in various scenarios. 

You Are Never Alone 

Balancing independence and support is at the heart of the Oxford Launch experience. You’ll grow as a traveler, a student, and a young adult — but you’ll also have access to people who care about your wellbeing every step of the way. 

Whether you're adjusting to the city, facing a challenge, or celebrating a milestone, your support network in London and at Oxford College is always here for you.