A Semester at Sea

Photo Credit: Toolkit.bootsnall.com

     As the shoreline disappears and the vastness of the world is before them, students gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience while enrolled in a Semester at Sea. This floating university offers a variety of experiences unlike any other study abroad program.
     Beginning in 1963 over 45,000 students have woken up to an ocean view and visited 8-10 countries in a single semester. Brazil, China, South Africa, and Ghana are only a few ports planned for the next term, Spring 2012, which is set to begin January 19th in Nassau, Bahamas and proceed until May 2nd, making its final port in San Diego, CA.
     One student who participated in the Semester at Sea, Kadir, started a blog documenting his experiences. In one of his first posts, An Unbelievable Opportunity, Kadir stated, "The concept of traveling around the world on a ship, sounded like such an amazing experience I just could not pass it up. I will be spending the night on the Great Wall of China, sitting under Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, climbing on the ancient Angkor Wat, and posing in front of the infamous Taj Mahal."

Photo Credit: Semester at Sea

     Besides from diving into a number of different cultures, the Semester at Sea also offers students amazing experiences while aboard the ship. The 2002 MV Explorer contains seven decks available to students which include a wellness center, gym, student cabins, an outdoor pool, dining halls, class rooms,and a Multi-Media lab among other things.
     The Semester at Sea website has more information regarding voyages, finances, and important dates students need to know when considering spending a semester at sea.