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[Embarking on a New Chapter: My Semester at Sea Journey]-[why i'm leaving SDSU...]

Nicole Laeno · B1 ·

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📋 Summary

Embarking on a New Chapter: My Semester at Sea Journey

In a recent announcement, content creator Nicole shared life-changing news: she is officially leaving San Diego State University (SDSU) for the upcoming fall semester to participate in the prestigious Semester at Sea (SAS) program. Selected as the official content creator for the Fall 2026 voyage, Nicole describes this opportunity as a "once in a lifetime opportunity" and a "new chapter" in her life.

The Itinerary: The World as a Campus

Nicole’s voyage is a four-month expedition spanning 11 different countries. Starting in the Netherlands, the ship will traverse Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, St. Helena, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Thailand. She expresses deep excitement about visiting Vietnam, noting that it has been "number one on my bucket list" and that she will be celebrating her 21st birthday there.

Academic Life and "Field Days"

Despite the travel, the program remains rigorous. Nicole explains that her schooling will take place on the ship while sailing between ports. A unique component of the curriculum is the "field days," where students take what they have learned in their ship-based classes and gain "hands-on experience with the locals, the culture, and things you would only get when you're in that country." Her major in communication and minor in digital and social media studies are fully integrated, ensuring she remains on track to graduate within four years.

Life on the Ship

Life aboard the vessel mimics a "Suite Life on Deck" experience. The ship is equipped with amenities such as a gym, a spa, a nail salon, a pool, and deck spaces. Nicole admits to some nerves regarding potential seasickness but remains optimistic, noting that she will be "stocked with medicine" and prepared for the unique rhythm of living at sea. She will also be sharing a cabin for the first time, joined by her best friend, Audrey, who is also attending the voyage.

Content Creation and Balancing Reality

As the voyage’s content creator, Nicole plans to maintain her YouTube schedule, aiming for a post once a week, and intends to document the journey across her social media platforms. She also confirmed that she will continue her long-standing annual tradition, "Vlogmas 2026," while traveling. However, she emphasizes the importance of balance, noting that the voyage is an opportunity to "unplug" and "be present" when Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Future Outlook and Gratitude

While leaving SDSU means stepping away from her dance team, Nicole is grateful for the experiences she has had. She views this journey as part of "God’s plan" and is eager for the personal growth that comes with traveling without family for the first time. By the end of her four-month voyage, she hopes to have "soaked it all in" and documented a transformative experience that she will remember for the rest of her life.

🎯Key Sentences

1
I think I'm still in disbelief.
2
I'm still processing everything.
3
I am ready for a new chapter.
4
I have a lot to share.
5
That's just a crazy sentence.
Expand All

📝Key Phrases

1
take it all in
2
in disbelief
3
on the right track
4
come in handy
5
once in a lifetime
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📖 Transcript

You heard it here first, I'm leaving San Diego State University and here's why believe, I'm following this video.
Okay, Nicole, calm yourself.
First of all, did you guys like the dramatic intro?
Did I scare any of you guys?
Let me know.
But hi guys, it's Nicole and welcome back to my channel.

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