One Ship - One World

Let me start by saying the power of the ocean is incredible. Not only in regards to seasickness which is a very real thing folks. Also in the sense that it brings the world together. As I embarked on the World Odyssey I said hello to maritime culture and goodbye to land culture.

The horn blew at 19:00 hours, September 9th, as we departed from our dock in Breamheaven, Germany... on time. I watched from deck seven as the crew brought in the ropes and the pilot boat guided us out to sea. It was all surreal until I heard the sound of the horn and instantly smiled. The deck filled with laughter and surprise. For all my fellow camp people, it was a feeling similar to driving through the gates on opening day, knowing what is ahead and looking around at all the people who will make the experience possible.

While I will get to see the world, I am surrounded by its heart beats and together we are creating a community unlike any other. “The community has 560 students with 219 different universities from 33 countries, including 60 non-US passport holders, 10 Lifelong Learners, and an additional 54 staff and faculty along with their 35 family members (including 17 kids!).” As well as the crew that staffs the ship, representing 23 different countries.

This dynamic scene creates an outlet for creative education and a platform for world conversation. While this may give a glimpse into life in these countries I am forced to remember that's just one story, one beat, the full album of sound produced by each place can only be heard by listening to every subculture or song that is composed of beats of its people.