I came on cruise knowing that I was in for a very unique experience. I put my fears aside and dove in head first. The lessons I learned are priceless and it is my honest opinion that this has been one of the major turning points of my life. It is easy to pretend that the two months at sea are times to be crazy and throw out inhibitions. However, we must be smart and understand that it is also an opportunity to form new ties and break old habits. I don't want to deceive anyone; there are times when I would like to be at home with friends and family. There are times when I would rather be alone. There are times when the Training Ship Golden Bear simply loses its appeal. I am proud and glad to say that I have managed my problems quite well and that the sunspots of this experience have been some of the most purely joyous times that I can remember.

Cal Poly at Sea is not the ideal way to travel. It is, however, the best way to study and simultaneously visit a small fraction of the beauty in the world. It is difficult to experience immersion in a culture during such a limited time. The upside is that we are exposed to several distinct cultures to which we may return at a later time. People everywhere have unique knowledge and perspectives to offer which we should attempt to understand.

I feel very privileged to see some of the things I've seen and heard during this trip. This includes the dirty, gross, and otherwise unpleasant things. Everything is part of living my friends. I would like to encourage everyone to embark on this journey if at all possible. Almost surely there will be a time when you will reflect and realize that the freedom and peace offered to you is wonderfully refreshing. Hopefully in the end we can all say that, if only for once, cruise is an experience worth having.

Classes at sea are easier for several reasons. First of all, there are fewer distractions when studying is to be done. Although people are difficult to get away from, it is easy to find time for class work because sometimes there simply won't be anything else to do. Secondly, your classmates are just next door, which greatly facilitates study groups. third, the professors are readily available and quite willing to speak with students upon request. Not only this; instructors like to have fun as well so if students work less, so do they.

The food service is satisfactory. One should not expect gourmet food, knowing that being out at sea limits all supplies. Even so, I must admit that I am happy with the meal selections, and the barbecues are definitely something to look forward to. Deserts and pastries on board are exquisite. Do not avoid them, but do consume in moderation if you are health or body conscious.

I doubt that any of my shipmates will have many regrets about the adventures we took on because there is simply no time to look back. I have learned more than what is taught in the classroom. I know myself better. I know the world a bit better. I have no complaints. I know it is a cliche, but seize the moment. As we often say on cruise, "You only live once." I would rather not look back and wonder what could have been.