Episode 196: Semester at Sea

Host: Elaine Kurceba

Guests: Maggie and Barry Stauffer

Description: In this episode Willow Valley residents Maggie and Barry Stauffer describe their transformative experience with the Semester at Sea program, a 100-day global voyage. Their ship functioned as a floating university, traveling to ten different countries including Brazil, South Africa, and India. The speakers describe the program’s unique structure, where college students earn academic credit alongside lifelong learners who audit classes while exploring diverse cultures. Throughout the conversation, they highlight profound personal moments, such as visiting Nelson Mandela’s prison cell and witnessing extreme poverty in local townships. Ultimately, the podcast illustrates how international travel and immersive education can broaden worldviews, foster empathy, and encourage people of all ages to step outside their comfort zone.