Some of you may have heard about the shocking incident which occurred in the Bronx in the early hours of Saturday morning, July 14th. A 20 year old J1 student was walking home with her friend from a pub on Katonah Avenue. With only a few blocks to walk to her door, the two girls were approached by an unknown male and one was attacked with a cement block causing serious injuries to her head. The sudden and shocking assault left her in need of immediate hospitalization.
The full story is available to read here.
It was also reported on by CBS News.
The Emerald Isle Immigration Center would like to remind all J1s to remain extremely cautious when out in New York, particularly at night. This incident, though horrifying, is unfortunately not an isolated occurrence.
We cannot stress how important it is to exercise extreme caution when walking the streets at night. Please only take well lit, and well populated routes and ensure that you have your mobile phone on you at all times. When leaving bars and restaurants always use a reputable cab company and try to use a cab at night time where possible. It is the safest option.
Don’t engage with suspicious strangers, even if they ask you a direct question. Just keep walking speedily and take out your phone and call a friend so you are in communication with someone you know. New York is a massive city, and so, for every great experience there is to be had here, there is also an equal possibility of something unfortunate taking place. No one wants a repeat of what happened last weekend to happen to them. Being informed and alert can make all the difference.
If any student needs to contact the Emerald Isle please do so on 718-324-3039 (Woodlawn office) and 718-478-5502 (Woodside Office)
Look after yourself and your friends,
Keep safe and enjoy the rest of the summer.