As a firm believer that pushing outside of your comfort zone helps you to grow, this course teaches and challenges you to take new responsibilities in leadership in an environment where the comfort of experience is absent. Complimenting classroom techniques of peer to peer leadership, Chad has introduced a nontraditional learning environment where adaptability and collaboration amongst former strangers can thrive. By breaking down barriers between individuals and changing how people approach situational leadership, the camaraderie formed at sea becomes one hard to replicate. Integrating this with the experience of making lifelong friends, the captivating backdrop of The Bahamas, and the local culture of Nassau creates a combination that may be the best possible way to spend your January. 

Jeff M: past participant

     

 Being a part of this January term study abroad really changed my perspective on the world, the way I travel, and how I want to interact with people. Our instructors facilitated the class in a way that encouraged conversation and allowed us the freedom to reflect. When I say that this class changed my life I really mean it. Even though we were in the Bahamas and the scenery was beautiful the most memorable parts of the experience was the conversations I had with the crew members on the Liberty Clipper, my classmates, and the students at the University of the Bahamas. The class showed me the difference between being physically somewhere and being present. And I am forever grateful for that. 

Emma H: past participant

     

 What an incredible experience that I had the pleasure of sharing with a group of stellar students. This opportunity presented us with the challenge of leading and contributing to a team in a new and unique environment. We had never been sailing before and it took the skills each of us learned in the course to navigate the nautical landscape while motivating each other to continue to succeed. I have especially been able to utilize the leadership model in my own career. This model focuses on meeting your team where they are at and succeeds when you are able to be adaptable to new ideas, landscapes, environments, and people. Overall, this course was fun and exciting as a trip but I learned just as much about myself and my leadership capabilities along the way. I would gladly recommend this course to anyone! 

Cole H: past participant

     

 This class is one of my best college memories. It gave me the opportunity to connect with people from different majors and ages, who I wouldn't necessarily have been able to take classes with or even meet. One of my favorite memories from the trip was keeping watch at 3 a.m. with my watch group. We cracked jokes and had great conversations while being under the stars in the middle of the ocean. 

Olivia D: past participant

     

 This class gave me two things. The first was an amazing experiential learning experience: working together with my peers to navigate our different leadership styles and achieve a common goal was truly educational. The second was an eye-opening adventure: the class made me a better global citizen by introducing me to authentic Bahamian culture, and even leading me to an amazing post-grad adventure working for the very company we sailed with! 

Dustin E: past participant

     

 This was one of the most unique and fun experiences I have had in my life. Living and hoisting the sails on the boat as a team really brings leadership into action right in front of your eyes. I never once imagined that I would be at the front of a tall ship surrounded by sea and that was truly a once in a lifetime experience for me that I won't soon forget. I would go back in a heartbeat, no matter what! 

Morgan S.: past participant

     

 The class was an incredible experience that advanced both my leadership skills and personal development. Learning about leadership styles and techniques directly followed by the opportunity to apply them allowed me to realize how I can best lead and support a team. Getting to learn about the Bahamian culture and sail a Schooner around the islands provided me with great memories that I will always cherish. 

Noah B-G: past participant

     

 If I had the chance to take this class again, I would sign up in a heartbeat. It’s now been more than 3 years since my experience. Admittedly, much of the sailing terminology escapes my memory, but the thrill of sailing in choppy waters and calming, starry nights remain etched into my mind. Most of all, the experiences I gained and the people I met through this class have shaped me into a kinder, more thoughtful, yet more adventurous person than I was before. By spending time in Nassau and on the ship, I learned the values of broadening my horizons and challenging my comfort zone, both things you will surely experience as well. If you’re deciding whether or not to take the class, here is my advice: The experiences you will gain will be invaluable, regardless of how far you are within your own personal leadership journey. And if you are accepted, congratulations! You will not regret it. Work hard, have fun, and learn as much as you can about yourself and your crew mates along the way. 

Kee G: past participant