This has truly been an amazing experience. I can't even describe to you how wonderful it is to wake up every morning, look out your window, and see the glowing Pacific Ocean. There is just something special about being out here. There is something about being out in the middle of the ocean, away from everything that you know, that seems to make you feel that much more full and complete.

I decided to participate in this program because I had never been out of the country. I wanted to see what else was out there, and I honestly saw the Cal Poly at Sea program as the most affordable opportunity to do that. I didn't even account for the added adventures and experiences that sailing through the ocean would provide in addition to seeing these beautiful countries. The experiences on the Golden Bear have added so much more to this adventure.

A typical day on the ship consists of an early breakfast, and one or two classes in the morning. Then there is lunch, quarters (an information gathering of all hands on the ship), and one or two classes in the afternoon. In addition, there are emergency drills about once a week, and you are expected to keep your room clean. You are part of a group in charge of cleaning a certain area on the ship every day. Occasionally, you will also be in charge of cleaning the eating area for a day. Honestly, the random chores are not bad at all. They take up very little time, can actually be quite fun if you let them be, and are less housekeeping chores than you would have if you were back in your home in San Luis Obispo. Everything else is taken care of for you, and you always have a hot meal ready for you. As an extra note, the desserts are amazing! Be prepared to be tempted every meal by a huge assortment of extremely tasty sweets and goodies.

By participating in this program there are so many opportunities that are offered to you. You get to visit amazing ports, meet great people, and live on a working ship for 2 months. How many people can say they have done that? The CMA officers and cadets, for the most part, were very friendly and helpful. A lot of them take pride in what they do and are more than willing to show you what their job is on the ship. It also gives you the chance to meet some really awesome people from another campus. Most of the Cal Poly students made a few really good friends with the CMA students.

Lastly, I have two big pieces of advice for you before you go on this adventure. First, when you are on the ship, go outside as much as you can. The sunsets, and even the sunrises are beyond words. There is always something to see out there, and even just feeling the ocean breeze on your face in incredible. Absorb all that is around you and just take it in. I was always so sad for the people who stayed in their rooms all day and missed "the giant whale that swam by", or "the sunset that stretched across the entire horizon." Secondly, go with a completely open mind. On this trip, you will meet so many incredible people, and you will also live with types of people you probably would never have guessed you would. Don't let drama, or issues with others take hold of your experience. I saw it happen to a few people, and they never seemed at ease. There are also many new and exciting things to do at ports and while you are on the ship. Just do them. Do them all. You will probably never get the opportunity to do these things again, and I promise that 99% of the time you will come out with a huge smile on your face. Live Life.