IU 172C New Student Seminar

Overview of Course

This course allows students to experience the world as their classroom. Start at Sea invites students to explore global cultures firsthand—through art, stories, music, food, and the everyday practices of communities across the globe. Students will sharpen critical thinking skills by diving into cultural artifacts and narratives that challenge assumptions, broaden perspectives, and help them to better understand how people make meaning in different cultures.

This course aims to help students discover who they are as a learner and global citizen. Through immersive experiences at each port of call, students will connect with local customs, traditions, and community practices, gaining a deeper sense of the world’s interconnectedness. Students will participate in reflective assignments and hands-on activities designed to support your personal growth, academic success, and cultural competence. Through intentional dialogue—both onboard and in port—students unpack contemporary global issues, develop social awareness, and learn how to navigate cultural differences with confidence and respect.