The best three weeks at see in my lifetime so far. Past Review

By (Environmentalism, Saint Lawrence University) - abroad from 06/19/2012 to 07/08/2012 with

Sea|mester: S/Y Ocean Star - Caribbean Basin Voyages

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes. Such a rich experience i will never forget. It may have shaped my career path as well.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was a very manageable and enjoyable experience to learn to sail, and receive certifications as an EFR and Open Water Diver. Made the trip that much better.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Once we arrived at the airport, transportation was provided directly to the marina where the boat was docked. The driver was a local and could not have been nicer.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

There were three stack bunks around the saloon and four additional ones in the bow. The quarters were rather small, but there were very comfy and could accommodate your clothing easily. I thoroughly enjoyed the living spaces.

* Food:

The best you could expect for living on a boat for 21 days. Your staples primarily but very enjoyable to say the least.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We spent a good amount of time on land at the various destinations, and we were able to witness several different cultures and geographical locations. Quite possibly one of my favorite trips out of the country.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

One girl had a rash that seemed to be spreading violently, but the staff was able to stifle it until we were able to visit a clinic or something of the sort. The local clinics were able to provide the proper medicine that helped the situation quickly.

* Safety:

Never felt unsafe or worried at all during the entirety of my trip.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Didn't spend money on anything other then souvenirs, clothing, and food.

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 60
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Indulge on local foods as much as you can, particularly fresh fruit.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Other
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Learning to sail hands on.
  • Feeling very productive every day.
  • The group.
* What could be improved?
  • Food
  • Land time
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How to sail