Sarah Schoote, 21 and a sophomore at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, said reading allows her to escape during Sea Term, a period of practical training at sea for students enrolled in maritime programs .
“Reading transports me, it's like a portal that stimulates my imagination and frees my mind,” Sarah said.
She and her comrades spend about six weeks sailing during Sea Term. They are divided into four divisions and participate in laboratory training, routine maintenance, maritime operations, guarding on decks and machinery, and emergency drills.
However, Sarah mentions that there are also moments of relaxation, especially during lunch breaks and free time in the evening.
“On the Kennedy, our old training ship, we had a library on board,” she said. “Many students enjoyed reading during the crossings and I also enjoyed spending time reading. It was a good way to have fun.”
The Academy's new training ship, the Patriot State, recently replaced the Kennedy, but does not yet have a library. To remedy this, Sarah is working to organize a book drive in partnership with the Friends of the Bourne Library, which will run from January 6 at 9am to January 7 at 8pm. Those interested can drop off Books during these two days at the library or bring them to the school before the cadets' departure scheduled for January 9.
These books will be useful during Sea Term as students sail from Buzzards Bay to Puerto Rico, Charleston, South Carolina, St. Thomas, and Tampa, Florida. If Sarah can collect enough books, students can anticipate enriching reading times.
The Sea Term is an academic requirement for all first- and second-year cadets majoring in marine engineering and maritime transportation, as well as first-year students in energy systems engineering.
“I think reading is an integral part of this experience,” Sarah said. “We are going to explore different parts of the world. Books help us develop our imagination even more.”
Original article written by: Rachael Devaney. Please follow her work on Twitter: @RachaelDevaney.
This book collection project reveals how reading culture can enrich students' maritime experiences. Indeed, in an environment as dynamic as that of the sea, having a moment to immerse yourself in a good book could also promote a certain balance between learning and relaxation. What impact could reading have on future sailors and engineers during their voyages?
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