Semester At Sea

It all began in Amsterdam, where the journey kicked off with boundless excitement. We then sailed to Lisbon, and in my US-China Relations class, we were graced with the presence of a US embassy representative. Oh, the insightful talks we had about US relations, Portugal, and the ever-changing world, particularly with China in the mix!

But wait, it gets better! Next, we embarked on a magical adventure in Morocco, where the Sahara Desert and the enchanting cities of Casablanca, Marrakesh, and Rabat left me awe-struck. And did I mention the delightful paella I savored in Valencia, Spain? But that wasn't all – we were also treated to a workshop by a local film director, despite the hilarious challenge of acting as translators for the entire class due to the language barrier. Talk about teamwork!

Then, medieval charm awaited us in Croatia, especially in the captivating city of Dubrovnik, where my heart felt right at home. Greece beckoned us next, and standing atop the Acropolis, I couldn't help but feel the weight of history as I delivered a speech for my public speaking class, just like the ancient Athenians once did.

 

Oh, and Cyprus! A beautiful island with a rich history that took me by surprise, making me realize how much there was to learn beyond my preconceptions. And let's not forget Jordan – with its awe-inspiring people, culture, landscapes, and let's not forget the mouthwatering food! Visiting Petra was a life-changing experience that left an indelible mark on my heart.

 

Mombasa in Kenya was a whole new world for me, my first time experiencing the Sub-Saharan African warmth and hospitality. I felt so welcome, and the desire to explore this region deeper grew stronger.

Then, the excitement peaked as we docked in Mumbai, India! After a long wait due to the pandemic, I was beyond thrilled to reunite with old friends, former students from my gap year, and even my host family from years ago. India had always held a special place in my heart, and this reunion only reaffirmed that connection.

Finally, we arrived in Dubai, and what a spectacular way to culminate this incredible journey of discovery! I could go on for hours sharing the unforgettable experiences, the friends I made, and the invaluable lessons learned. This transformative experience has instilled in me an unwavering confidence that I have a purpose in this world – a purpose that revolves around creating a more livable and interconnected world, embracing diversity, and addressing inequalities.

So, my fellow adventurers, seize every opportunity to explore, learn, and grow, for the world is brimming with wonders waiting to be discovered. Let's make our mark, leaving behind a legacy of unity and understanding as we sail through life's unpredictable seas.