Greek Life on Semester at Sea – study abroad without missing a connection
When studying abroad on Semester at Sea, you will build a worldwide network and unlock new skills, experiences and capabilities. Plus, you can do this even as an active member of your sorority or fraternity.
Leadership on land means leadership at sea
Just like in Greek Life on your home campus, you can develop your leadership skills on Semester at Sea. In addition to creating and leading student clubs onboard, Semester at Sea also has growth-oriented opportunities where you can gain leadership and professional experience, such as our Student Assistant positions.
If you ready to start exploring your Greek Life journey on Semester at Sea, complete the form to connect with Admissions.
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What Is Semester at Sea?
Global Experience
Visit 10+ countries around the world in a uniquely comparative environment that provides a truly global perspective.
College Credit
Earn a 12-15 undergraduate credits from Colorado State University. Enroll in the rigorous curriculum you need to accomplish your academic goals.
Shipboard Life
Enjoy the comfort and community of a floating home away from home, no matter where in the world your voyage takes you.
Experiential Learning
Develop a deeper understanding of the world through onboard and in-country learning opportunities that connect the classroom to the communities you visit.
Funding Your Voyage
Did you know that 60% of Semester at Sea voyagers receive some form of aid and scholarships each voyage?
Curious about funding a Semester at Sea voyage? Visit our Financial Aid page to explore your options.
Below are additional resources recommended by our Greek Life alumni:
- Your chapter’s academic, scholarship, or finance chair
- The [inter]national website for your chapter
- The Greek Life office at your university
- The National Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, or Interfraternity Council
- Scholarship Search Engines
I knew I wanted to both study abroad and hold an executive position in my sorority, so I began planning out my schedule early. Working with my study abroad office, I figured out that the best time for me to sail would be Sophomore Spring, as I could still hold a position that following year. I’m so happy I didn’t have to choose between studying abroad and chapter leadership, as they both rounded out my college experience and helped me learn so many new things!”
Eliza Wenger, Spring ‘23 alum – Chapman University, Gamma Phi Beta
“I was nervous about paying dues and missing out on big events while I studied abroad. I reached out to my chapter early and had honest conversations about my worries, and we were able to work out a smaller fee rather than paying all of my dues for that semester! While I missed my friends at times, I was having so much fun traveling and experiencing the world that it never felt like I was missing out—just doing something different. Studying abroad didn’t take away from my Greek Life experience; it added to it!
Hana Freburg, Fall ’24 alum — University of Alabama, Alpha Phi
Frequently Asked Questions
You don’t have to choose between studying abroad and holding an Executive position! Here are some options:
- For chapters with a Sophomore Spring to Junior Fall Executive term, most members will sail Junior Spring (but it’s also possible to go Sophomore Fall or anytime during Senior Year).
- For chapters with a Junior Spring to Senior Fall Executive term, most members will sail Sophomore Spring or Junior Fall (it’s also possible to go Sophomore Fall or Senior Spring).
Yes! Global Ambassadors are student alums who recently sailed on a Semester at Sea voyage and are excited to share their experience with you. Several of them also participated in Greek Life. Read their bios on our Global Ambassador page to learn which sorority or fraternity they belong to, and get connected with them if you’d like to learn more about their experience!
We recommend planning early in order to secure subleases/make arrangements. If you need to give up your housing, many students have used Facebook groups for their college, asked during a Chapter meeting, or even posted flyers around campus.
Semester at Sea will offset the cost of your required chapter dues by providing a shipboard credit for the equivalent amount (up to $500; proof of payment required). This credit can be applied toward immersive In-Country Field Programs, tourist visas, laundry services, or purchases at the shipboard store. You may also use your credit for dining at the ship’s snack bars and grill, or for treatments at the spa and hair salon.
Absolutely! Semester at Sea student organizations are started on board the ship at the beginning of each voyage. Students are encouraged to create, lead, and join clubs that they’re interested in. Additionally, our Student Assistant Grants (as well as other scholarships) offer leadership opportunities in many different areas of shipboard life!
Yes! From meeting other members of your chapter on the ship, creating and leading different student clubs, and bringing the spirit, energy, and competition during student life events, there are plenty of opportunities to reap the benefits of Greek life at sea.