Overview of Course

As a student in this course, you will utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills to create a successful transition to the Semester at Sea experience. This transition will include an assessment of social identities, values, skills, and interests as a basis for reflecting on individual purpose and for developing goals for educational and professional aspirations. Your information literacy skills will also be enhanced as you learn how to be academically successful in your coursework and within an academic discipline of interest, and as you plan and execute meaningful port experiences with diverse populations, cultures, and perspectives. You will determine how to best advocate for yourself in identifying resources and opportunities, developing a curricular and co-curricular engagement plan, and engaging and reflecting on those experiences. In addition, you will explore dimensions of wellness, including factors and individual behaviors that influence wellness. Furthermore, the class will provide you with opportunities to develop community with other Gap Year students and with Staculty members, through intergroup dialogue for a deeper understanding of various social identities and cultural backgrounds that may differ from your own.