Here's the deal: I am a student of a University. The graduate program that I am finishing this semester requires an INTERNATIONAL Class trip. The head's of dept. decided (not class vote) that this year's graduating class would go to China. This was decided August 2001, when we entered the program. Since that time the world has gotten a little crazy. We are due to leave for this trip in March. On Nov. o2, 2002 the US State Dept. released a public annoucement stating the potential for terrorist actions against US citizens abroad, specifically in the SE Asia region. THis public Announcement expires on May 1, 2003. On February 6, 2003 The state dept issued "Worldwide Caution".

The school says that if you do not attend the trip you do not graduate. The 80 member body of students has suggested another location for a trip. The school has been closed minded and unwilling to make a contingency plan should our country be at war. Can they legally prevent a student from graduating should that student feel uncomfortable for their safety during the trip?