Semester at Sea: Charting a Course Through the Pros and Cons

Semester at Sea is a unique study abroad program that offers students the opportunity to travel the world while earning college credit. This ship-based program allows students to visit multiple countries across different continents in a single semester, providing a diverse and immersive educational experience. Partnered academically with Colorado State University, Semester at Sea aims to spark bold solutions to global challenges through journeys of discovery. However, like any significant educational endeavor, it presents both advantages and disadvantages that prospective participants should carefully consider.

What is Semester at Sea?

Semester at Sea is a multi-country study abroad program where students travel, live, and take classes on a ship. Voyages typically last about 100 days, with participants visiting at least 10 countries. For instance, the spring itinerary included Germany, Portugal, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, Malaysia, India, and Thailand. This program gives students a chance to see places they may not normally visit. Additionally, students have access to services on the ship similar to their home institution, including counselors and student life staff. There is a gym and pool, and students can also participate in various clubs and attend lectures by visiting scholars to keep busy while at sea.

Academic Advantages

One of the primary draws of Semester at Sea is the opportunity to earn 12-15 college credits while traveling. The program offers three-credit courses in various subject areas, such as business ethics, public speaking, introduction to theater, oceanography, and world religions. Beginning in fall, two engineering courses will be offered. All students participate in the core course, Global Studies, which discusses the history, political climate, and culture of each country where the ship will dock.

The moving nature of the 'campus' allows students to apply what they learn across many different cultures and customs. The classes on the ship are often tied into the next country the students are going to, and the professors are knowledgeable about what to expect in each destination. This immersive approach to learning can enhance students' understanding of global issues and different cultures.

Semester at Sea currently partners with Colorado State University, meaning students are considered visiting guests at CSU, with official transcripts sent to their home institution.

Read also: Explore Global Opportunities

Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth

Semester at Sea provides students with unparalleled cultural immersion. By visiting numerous countries in a single semester, students are exposed to diverse cultures, customs, and perspectives. This can lead to personal growth, increased adaptability, and a broader worldview.

Many students describe the experience as life-changing, citing the incredible freedom to explore each country independently or through organized field programs. These experiences often push students out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to try new things and befriend people from diverse backgrounds.

Community and Networking

The unique environment of Semester at Sea fosters a strong sense of community. Students live, learn, and travel together, creating a special bond that is hard to find elsewhere. This close-knit community can lead to lifelong friendships and an expanded network of contacts from around the world.

The ship is an incredible place full of people from diverse backgrounds. The ship crew is one of a kind and the most giving, caring crew you could imagine. The professors and faculty are amazing, and the classes are not too terribly difficult since the professors are also there to enjoy the experience and travel with their partners and families.

Financial Considerations

One of the most significant drawbacks of Semester at Sea is the cost. For fall, Semester at Sea is charging between $32,900 and $36,100, depending on whether a student chooses the standard or premium cabin option. While this price includes tuition, housing, meals, amenities, academic field costs, a starter internet package, travel health insurance, and student services, it does not cover flights to and from the docking port, travel visas, textbooks, laundry, vaccines, and personal travel.

However, there are financial aid options available for students. Semester at Sea awards more than $5 million in funds annually through merit- and need-based scholarships and grants. The program also matches one semester of funding for all Pell Grant recipients. Students may also qualify for scholarships and other funding through their college. An average of 60% of voyagers receive some form of aid and scholarships each voyage. Even students who don't receive financial aid at their home colleges or universities may qualify for funding assistance through Semester at Sea.

Logistical Challenges

Living on a ship for an extended period presents unique logistical challenges. Rooms are small, and the food can become repetitive. Internet access for personal use is limited, which can be challenging for students who need to stay connected for coursework or personal reasons.

There’s a lot of unpredictability on Semester at Sea. Every voyage gets an itinerary, but that doesn’t mean that’s where you’ll end up as planned. Something like someone on board needing medical attention, bad weather, politics, etc. can make the planned itinerary change at a moments notice. Internet was another unpredictable factor of the ship.

Potential Drawbacks

Semester at Sea may not be the best fit for every student. Students looking for language immersion or an internship experience may find other study abroad programs more suitable. All the courses are taught in English, and learning a language usually requires being immersed in the culture and requires daily use of the target language, and the culture is essential to learning another language.

There also needs to be a level of comfort with being on a ship for a long time. Before applying to any program, students should consider their study abroad goals.

Read also: Affording Baylor University

Is a Gap Year Right for You?

A gap year is a period of time during which someone chooses to take a break from formal education in pursuit of travel, work, volunteerism, or any number of extracurricular activities. Gap years typically fall between high school graduation and before a student has been accepted into college, but can also refer to a break during, after, or between college, graduate school, or even jobs.

During a gap year, people often have the flexibility to embark on a wide range of endeavors, depending on their personal needs and goals. Many people dedicate their gap year to reflection and self-discovery. This time between formal obligations allows one to step out of the traditional academic track, gain practical experiences, and better understand one’s passions and aspirations.

Advice for Future Travelers

For students considering Semester at Sea, it is essential to do thorough research and plan carefully. Here is some advice to future travelers on this program:

Say yes more than no! Semester at Sea gave me opportunities I never would've dreamed of and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Try everything and talk to everyone. Some of the best experiences I had in this program were the things I was nervous to try with people I never thought I'd befriend.
Be comfortable with the uncomfortable! Step out of your comfort zone. Talk to as many people as you can (In the program and locals).
Waste no time!
Plan, plan, and plan some more. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure a meaningful and fulfilling gap year experience (and avoid wasting time).
Approach the experience with intention. Regardless of the reason for taking a gap year, view it as a valuable experience that can shape your future positively.
Be prepared to reflect on your experience. Admissions officers and prospective employers will be interested to hear about what you did during your gap year and how your experiences impacted you.

Alternatives to Traditional Study Abroad

Since you’ve already completed your degree, you have the freedom to choose between an overseas internship, work study, volunteer, research, or service learning opportunities abroad. Postgraduate study abroad: If you intend to pursue an advanced degree, you may have a chance to travel as part of your studies. If you’re not sure which type of study abroad to choose, consult an academic advisor at your school or contact the admissions team at any of the programs that interest you.

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