Help Me Expand My Horizons with Semester at Sea!

Hello everyone,

I’m reaching out to share some exciting news and to ask for your support as I take my education beyond the classroom. I’ve been accepted into the Semester at Sea program, a unique opportunity to extend my education by traveling the world while earning academic credits. As a recent college graduate, I’ve been searching for ways to apply myself and the newfound knowledge I have gained from my 4 years at ASU. I have always been passionate about learning, exploring new perspectives, and traveling. One regret I have from my time at ASU was not doing a study abroad program, which is why I’m grateful to Semester at Sea for providing me with this amazing opportunity to do just that.

With that in mind, I’m excited to share that in Fall 2025, I’ll be embarking on an incredible journey with Semester at Sea. Over the course of 105 days, I’ll have the opportunity to explore 11 countries, 12 cities, and 3 continents. This is far more than just a travel adventure; it’s a chance to immerse myself in global cultures, connect with diverse communities, and gather experiences that will profoundly shape my future.

As an emerging artist, I’m still trying to find my place in the creative space, and I think Semester at Sea will provide me with new experiences and insights that I can incorporate into my artistic process. Through attending classes and workshops related to the performing arts at each port of call, I hope to build meaningful international connections. My goal is to fully engage with each community, embracing their stories and traditions to gain a deeper understanding of their history and way of life. While textbooks offer valuable knowledge, I believe the true essence of learning comes from direct, hands-on experiences. This journey is my opportunity to truly live and learn from the world around me.

Participating in Semester at Sea will be a transformative experience for me as a student of color. Although I was born in another country, I have not ventured outside the United States since moving here. I have always aspired to be well-traveled by learning, experiencing, and understanding other cultures and ways of life. Traveling to multiple countries will allow me to immerse myself in diverse cultures and broaden my perspective on the world. I want to connect with others who are outside of my normal worldview, believing that this will help me become a more well-rounded person and enhance my artistry.

I will connect with peers from various backgrounds, which will help me build a valuable network and foster meaningful conversations about global issues that affect us all. Stepping out of my comfort zone will push me to grow in ways I can’t yet anticipate, enhancing my confidence and adaptability. Ultimately, this journey will enrich my understanding of global issues and ignite a passion for creating positive change, allowing me to touch the lives of different kinds of people from various walks of life.

However, this extraordinary adventure comes with significant costs. To make this dream a reality, I need your help to cover: https://www.semesteratsea.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Fall-2025-Voyage-Budget-.pdf

1. Program Tuition and Fees: Essential for participating in classes and cultural excursions.

2. Travel Costs: Includes flights, visas, and housing accommodations for the various countries we’ll visit.

3. Onboard Living Expenses: Cover meals, accommodations, and educational activities.

4. Additional Expenses: Any unforeseen costs that may arise during the trip.

Your support would not only help me make the most of this unique learning experience but also allow me to bring back new perspectives and ideas to share with others. I’m deeply grateful for any contribution you can make, and I promise to keep you updated on this incredible journey.

Thank you for helping me take this next step in my educational adventure!

With heartfelt thanks,

Honestine Mbuyenge