Studying abroad can be a truly enlightening experience... just ask Southhampton College's SEAmester students.

It's More Than Study Abroad, It's an Adventure!
By Tachelle Wilkes
January 2002

The CollegeBound Network NewsClick -- Imagine having class on a 131-foot ship where lessons involve climbing through waterfalls in the Dominican Republic, hiking 3,000 feet to the Citadel in Haiti, and watching dolphins play freely? The SEAmester program at Southampton College at Long Island University, Southampton, NY, is taking a new spin on education by offering such nine-week programs along the sea.

During fall and spring semesters, students are housed on
traditionally-rigged tall schooners with names like the Harvey, the Spirit of Massachusetts, and the Californian, while learning the ways of sailors who lived for thousands of years.

So what is it that sets SEAmester apart from other study abroad programs? "First of all, you're on a 131-foot ship with 30 other people," says Mary Wozny, a SEAmester senior biology major. "Instead of studying in one other country like most study abroad programs, you're studying in about 20 ports in five different countries." And, adds Mary, not only is SEAmester mentally challenging, physical strength and skill are important, too!

"We learn how to sail the boat," explains Kelly Roe, a sophomore biology major in the program because we get up at all hours [of the day], work in all sorts of weather, and see areas that we wouldn't normally see."

And, adds Christopher P. Hamilton, coordinator and marine science professor, there are definitely challenges to work through.

"These boats have no electric winches or running water, so there's lots of physical work and saltwater showers," he explains. "The students become crew members as soon as they step on board. They actually stand watch, sail the ship, clean, and assist the cook."

The experience is unlike any other because it requires hard work and scholastic dedication. In addition to working the ship, students are also enrolled in upper-level courses such as coastal geology and biological survey of the Atlantic and Caribbean coastlines. All courses are designed to introduce students to various ecosystems, organisms, and geologic environments they will encounter throughout the trip.

If the small stuff doesn't bother you -- like not being able to take a hot shower -- and you look at the bigger picture of learning more about yourself and experiencing a unique study abroad program that can possibly change your life forever, there's no time like the present to sign up for SEAmester. Alright mate?