Day 3/4 – First Day of Classes

August 31th – September 1st

‘A’ Days: econ and soc
We spent the day docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico to refuel the ship. Because of a nearby Hurricane Hannah, we deviated course about 75 miles. We weren’t allowed off, because of “class” and the limited time available. I took some great pics from the deck anyway. Then I headed down to ‘Development Econ and Policy.’ I am really excited for the class. We’re learning about poverty, urban pressures and economic instability in each of our port countries. For example, India has about 60% of the population living under $2 a day, while Malaysia has about 6%. It will be a really eye-opening class. Course requirements include Faculty Developed Practicas (FDPs), which are faculty-lead trips at each port to apply class material to the real world. They are super cheap and really great for learning about policies in each country. Later I had ‘Global Social Movements’ with Professor Scott. She is a tall, slender, black woman that is not afraid to call anyone out. There is no such thing as participation in her class because she just points at you suddenly and expects you to answer. Honestly, I’m a little scared. Scott was once a leader in the Black Panthers and is infamous for out-talking Oprah on her own show! I can’t wait to find the YouTube clip.

Recreation
The gym is consistently packed, but at least there was a masseuse on the pool deck when I went to read outside. It is almost impossible to be dressed for the day, seeing as it is +90o outside and about 65o inside. You have to wear your bathing suit to class under a sweatshirt because it feels so cold. I also found out that they offer a dinner special for those willing to pay $25 for a 5-course meal. A fellow student told me it’s for taking people on dates or birthday dinners. You can also order birthday cakes and cupcakes if you give the kitchen staff 48 hours in advance. I have already found two other kids who are turning 21 in Costa Rica like me, so we are planning a huge SAS birthday bash. I think most people will be up for it seeing it’s the day after finals.

Tonight (Aug 31st) was the first time they had “Pub Night” on the top deck. This is when students can redeem their drink vouchers for wine or beer. Everyone is rationed to two drinks at dinner in the Garden Court and then four drinks on the deck anytime between 7 - 11PM. Security watches over everyone and covers the exit so no one can bring bags or nalgens into the area to accumulate beverages. I didn’t drink, but ended up socializing for over 4 hours! It was amazing to see how kids’ moods changed when alcohol was present. Tons of kids finally smiled, relaxed and opened up more. Oo that social lubricant…

‘B’ Days: global studies and psych
My global studies class, which is called ‘The Rise of Great Powers,’ focuses on international relations, namely in India, China and Japan. It’s history and poli sci based so I think its my least favorite class, but it’s required so I can deal. It’s located in the union at the front of the boat, so every time we go over big waves you really feel it! Very hard to fall asleep in that class! After lunch I had ‘Psych of Food and Culture,’ which is by far my favorite class. It’s all about eating practices, food preferences and rituals in different cultures. I think it may be my favorite because it focuses on FOOD and EATING! Yumm. Dr. Cargill is very dynamic and loves sharing experiences from all her travels. Seeing as I’m already getting tiered of the everyday soup, salad, veggie, meat, pasta, potato, dessert selection, I am looking forward to tasting local “delicacies”… and experiencing the uncomfortable after shocks. Maybe I’ll come home with some exciting new recipes to cook (Get excited family!).

Highs and Lows
My “high” was happening into the activities fair and finding Lauren a girl I shared a taxi with from the airport to hotel (Remember, mom?). My “low” was discovering my new deodorant leaves the scent of maple syrup on my shirts.