From Tanzania to San Francisco, our community is a diverse one, but it can agree on one thing: we are all excited for the month to come! Although a few are still trickling in, we have all arrived safely on the beautiful island of Eleuthera, thanks to the dedicated and inspirational staff’s leadership. First day jitters jumped away as everyone rose bright and early to come together as a group, sing the Bahamian National Anthem, and hop in the water for an early morning snorkel.

As we went on this bonding snorkeling experience, friendships were not only made with our fellow students but also with the sea creatures we encountered. We got the chance to hold a giant starfish, West Indian sea eggs, brittle sea stars, and even donkey dung (sea cucumber!) and sea slugs. The donkey dung shared some of its fluids, so we had some good laughs. An hour came and went, the staff led us back to land, and the rest of the day flew by. Students toured campus for the first time and found their bearings on the boathouse and in the classroom. After hearing the academic and social expectations last night, we have high hopes for the rest of the month. The community is growing fast, and there is no telling how strong we will all become. #NOCEILINGS

Your Day One Caciques (student leaders for the day),

Eliot, Malik, and Clay