As the United States and coalition forces wage war in Iraq, UCLA
students continue to slug their way through final exams and
University of California administration goes about its
business.
But not business as usual.
Bullets fly in the desert and bombs drop over Baghdad and the
federal government is warning citizens of a high risk of terrorist
attacks in the United States.
The UC Board of Regents canceled their meeting scheduled for
Wednesday and Thursday in San Francisco. The university stated the
decision was made based on the sense that it might not be safe for
board members to travel.
Because of the war and federal terrorism warning, campus police
at UCLA are at a higher level of alert than usual
"What we’re doing is increased patrols of critical locations on
campus," said UCPD assistant chief Karl Ross.
Ross would not say which areas on campus are considered critical
locations.
He added the UCPD was in contact with local, state, and federal
law enforcement agencies and was ready to implement the campus
emergency plan if needed.
In light of heightened anxieties, both UC president Richard
Atkinson and UCLA chancellor Albert Carnesale issued releases
stating precautions are being taken to improve campus security.
According to Atkinson, the UC will increase security patrols,
especially at university housing, and protect access to critical
buildings.
Security concerns for students extend beyond U.S. borders.
The State Department on Wednesday cautioned American citizens
around the world to be aware of potential threats.
The UC plans for students enrolled in the Education Abroad
Program to continue their studies, with all programs for 2002-2003
remaining open for now. Students overseas have been advised to
follow increased safety procedures.
Students have 24-hour access to EAP staff members, with whom
they have been asked to maintain close contact. Students have been
instructed to let EAP staffers know of their whereabouts at all
times and to keep a low profile.
"The University of California’s highest priority … is always
student safety," said UC press aide Hanan Eisenman.
Eisenman added the UC "is monitoring events closely" and is in
contact with the State Department, U.S. embassies abroad, and
governments of host countries.
While many across the country worry about possible terrorist
attacks, the severe fears are not universal. Some students’ minds
are more occupied with tests than threat assessments.
"It’s really not going to have any big impact on my finals … I
don’t think we’re going to have any terror problems," said
first-year economics student Ivona Sismanovic.
Another person not very worried about domestic attacks,
first-year undeclared student Matt Barnett, plans to travel by air
on Saturday. For him, the safety of his friends in the Persian Gulf
is weighs heavier than terrorism warnings.
"My primary concern is with my friends that are over there …
probably more now than before," he said.
With reports from Charlotte Hsu, Daily Bruin Contributor