Off to Sea The World - Alma Mater

86 Days

Less than 100 days until I set sail. Around the world.

That is one of the most scary yet exciting statements I've ever said. Never in a million years would I have thought that one of my semesters in college would be spent traveling to 12 different countries on a ship with hundreds of other college kids. It's definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. 

I've gone back and forth so many times wondering if this is the right decision for me. That maybe I should skip the opportunity and save the money. And then I flash forward 50 years to when I'm 70...telling my friends "I was offered the opportunity to sail around the world but declined....no big deal right?..." I could just see their mouths drop...who in their right mind would decline an opportunity like THAT?! Money doesn't grow on trees. But an opportunity to sail around the world doesn't come around too often either!

So here we are. Less than 100 days. Visas have been applied for. Work study app was sent in. Passport has been received. Countless other forms signed, sealed, and delivered. I knew that the process of preparing for SAS would be long. But seriously...with 86 days until we disembark, I already feel like it's crunch time. 

-I need to get vaccines and malaria pills (that apparently literally make you insane)

-STILL have to write a proposal for a self designed thematic sequence (which can't occur until the official SAS syllabi are posted November 1st)

-I have to start packing (God knows how I'll fit everything into two duffel bags)

-Class registration

-Mail updated transcript (Sorry for the lower grades last semester SAS, I believe that's your fault for brainwashing me and making me obsessed about SAS everyday...)

-Physical forms

-Oh wait what about- What am I doing in EVERY country?!? (Is there a "winging it" club on board?)

-Flight and hotel reservations

& probably 500 other things I've forgotten about....oh yeah like paying tuition by Oct 31....or before that?...I should probably check that date...

A side note on Visas: I used Pinnacle. Yes it may have been slightly more expensive. But knowing they have worked with SAS for many years prior to my voyage gave me much needed comfort. I knew I couldn't possibly get everything done on time by myself. Having another company do it would probably have worked too. But knowing that Pinnacle knows they're dealing with SAS kids and visas makes me happy : ) Once I get my visas back along with my passport, I'll really be a happy camper...err sailor!