Semester at Sea was designed to give college students a hands-on learning experience during a semester-long voyage around the world. The program is the brainchild of founder C.Y. Tung, who believed "ships could carry ideas as well as cargo." To qualify for the program, students must have completed at least one full semester of college and meet the grade point average requirement. A cruise ship serves as the campus. Students choose from a variety of courses, which require on-board classroom work and field work in the destinations the ship will visit.
Once you have been accepted into the program, you must obtain a passport. You also must make sure you have the proper visas for countries that require them, as well as any required immunizations. You should do all of this months ahead of your trip to ensure you're ready to leave when the ship departs. You also should call a travel agent to book your transportation to your port of departure and back home from your port of return. The earlier you handle the arrangements, the better your chance of getting cheaper rates.
Make a checklist of all items you will need for your approximately three-month voyage. Research the ports you will visit to find out weather trends and what type of clothing you will need. Do not overpack, as there are weight limits on baggage. Plan to dress in layers, depending on temperatures to make the most of what you pack. Laundry service is available on board, so pack about two weeks worth of underwear. You'll also want to bring a laptop, a credit card, a bank card or cash, a three-month supply of any medications you take, DVDs, an MP3 player, a journal and a bathing suit. Women also should bring scarves as some countries require that women be fully covered in public.
Remember the purpose of your trip is to learn. Make sure you take full advantage of every opportunity offered. Study and attend your classes while at sea. Guest lecturers and students from each port of destination are brought on board at each stop to offer insight into their particular country. Their first-hand advice will help you adjust to the culture and make the most of your visit to each country. Participate in sponsored activities, but also plan some excursions of your own. Remember you are a visitor, and always be respectful of each culture you encounter.
