5/17/07

Wow, it feels so different to be back in the United States. One of the most profound culture shocks that I have experienced this entire semester occurred while driving through Bellevue, Hailey, and Ketchum (three towns in the Sun Valley, ID area) on my way home. As I passed through these towns at about 12:00am, not a single person was about. I must have seen 5 cars total between the three towns. What?! Where am I?!! After traveling through some of the most populous countries in the world, Idaho really is “my own private Idaho.” From what I’ve seen, the United States is the most unique country in the world. Vietnam has more in common with Brazil than it does with the United States. The little island nation of Mauritius has more in common with huge China than it does with the United States. The concept of suburban America has a long way to go before it becomes a global concept. Very few places did I see neighborhoods with well-manicured lawns, large homes, landscaping, and several cars in the driveway. Oh, and one more thing; who ever decided it was a good idea for the United States not to use the metric system? Now that’s just dumb.

In reflection, Semester at Sea has been an absolutely incredible experience…well worth the time, energy, and money. The experience has opened my eyes to the many cultures, landscapes, and peoples that occupy our virtually shrinking world. I would absolutely recommend this program to any students looking to study abroad. The breadth of the program simply cannot be beat.

After 100 days of sailing and intense traveling, my mind and body are totally exhausted. I’ve spent the last several days just trying to recover and grasp what I have done. The end of the semester is best described as bittersweet. It was sad to see it all end, but I needed a rest. One thing that is for sure; the friends I’ve met this semester will be some of my closest friends for the rest of my life. Experiencing the world has a way of bringing people together.

In closing, I would like to say thank you to my parents and NSCS for giving me the opportunity to participate in the SAS program. I couldn’t have done it without you. Also, thanks to everyone who has read this blog all semester (I know, it’s been lengthy). If you have any questions/comments about the program or my experiences, feel free to drop me an email at michael.r.mcclure@colorado.edu. I wish you the best of luck in your future travels and endeavors. Think about this: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.”


Signing out,

Mike