Letter From the President
If you're thinking about studying abroad, I’m sure you have looked at a map. But did you know that there is only one program that will take you to the three-quarters of that map that is blue? SEA Semester. We take college students to the open ocean on a traditional sailing vessel to learn about the science and culture of the sea.
You may first be captivated by the opportunity to visit exotic ports like Tahiti, the Marquesas, Bermuda, or Bequia. But if you talk to students who have experienced SEA Semester, many will tell you that the most captivating destination of all is the sea itself, and the most exciting discovery is learning what lies within you.
Perhaps you want to visit international ports. Perhaps you are intrigued that the world is mostly water and you want to know more about how the ocean works. Perhaps you want to understand how we are ONE world, land and sea, connected to our past, to our environment and to each other. Perhaps you just want to do something very, very exciting and different from what others are doing. If any of this sounds familiar, give us a look.
By coming to SEA Semester, you can get a semester’s worth of credit in just 12 weeks. Our rigorous interdisciplinary programs begin in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, one of the world’s great centers for ocean research. Here you will study the chemistry, biology, physics, and geology of the oceans, and you will design your own research project to carry out at sea. You will learn the history and culture of mariners who for centuries have gone to sea, an ancient tradition that you will join. You will discuss the major policy issues that will be tomorrow’s headlines. And you will learn what it requires to take a vessel under sail safely to the open ocean.
After ample preparation on shore, you will be ready and eager to go to sea. You and your classmates will join one of our 134-foot vessels in the Atlantic, Pacific, or Caribbean. You will stand watch as part of a shipboard community of 35 students and crew. When on deck, you will be handling sails, navigating, and making sure all gear is in good working order. When in the lab, you will have access to sophisticated equipment in an ever changing field-based environment. Every day, you will be given more responsibility from the crew as your skills increase until, towards the end, you and your classmates are running the ship!
Is SEA Semester for you? Only you can tell. Our programs offer a variety of academic focuses, cruise tracks, and schedules to accommodate nearly every student’s interests and availability. Perhaps you want to examine the sustainability of Polynesian island cultures. Or explore on the natural and social changes in the Caribbean since Columbus. Or dig deeper into the science of climate change or biodiversity. Maybe you will even be interested in my previous field at NOAA, marine policy.
What do our students have in common? They are bright. They have a sense of adventure. They are willing to work hard. They welcome a unique experience. They relish a challenge. They like people and want to be part of a community unlike any they have experienced before. They become more than friends or classmates – they become shipmates!
Our students are also diverse. Many are science majors but an equal amount come from the liberal arts. They represent more than 100 universities in every part of the country and from outside of the U.S. as well. Additionally, over half of our students receive some sort of financial aid. If cost is a concern, know that if you are qualified and motivated, we will find a way to make this experience affordable for you.
Finally, our students go on to successful careers. Our alumni tell us that SEA Semester was instrumental in them setting their courses and reaching their destinations. You will find our network of alumni influencing the world from their positions in government, non-profits, research labs, academia and business. And they will be there to offer you a hand as well.
So, if you think it's worth one semester to study three-quarters of the world, then check us out. You’ll find a lot on our website, but you can learn even more from our friendly and knowledgeable Admissions Counselors.
The sea awaits. Begin your adventure now!
John Bullard
President, Sea Education Association