Sierra Sweetman- Blog Abroad
Blog #1
Hi! My name is Sierra Sweetman and I am a senior at UNM studying Health, Medicine, and Human Values. This fall I am studying abroad with a program called Semester at Sea (SAS). SAS is a program where you live on a boat and travel to 11 different countries over the course of the semester, while gaining college credit. On the boat I am taking Adolescent Psychology, Positive Psychology, Comparative Animal Physiology, Social Problems, and Global Studies. I love all my classes so far. My professors are from all over and they all offer rich life experiences that contribute to our global education. September 2026
Semester at Sea Embarkation
We embarked in the Netherlands on September 9th and right now we are on our way to Porto, Portugal. The first few days on the ship have felt so busy. From making new friends to discovering all the ship has to offer, I feel like I haven't sat down once. My life has consisted of enriching conversations with new friends, going to the gym, and tanning by the pool.
There are students here from all over the world. It is interesting to learn how each has discovered SAS and what they have done to lead them to the boat. Making friends on the boat is kind of like speed dating, you are talking to so many different people all in the span of minutes. It was challenging to understand who would be a good friend or not. But, I know that everything will fall into place and I will find my people.
The staff and crew are some of the nicest people I have ever met. The crew knew our names pretty much the second day and they always went out of their way to ask you how you are. Much of the crew is from the Phillipines, but they have worked for SAS for a long time, so they also have so many experiences to share with us.
Overall, the first few days have been chaotic, fun, and super interesting. I am super excited to see where this journey takes me and the person I become along the way. I can already feel myself changing for the better!
