Katherine “Katie” Wildman discovered Semester at Sea while exploring study-abroad options as an undergraduate. Although the program didn’t align with Katie’s budget at the time and she pursued an alternative, she began a five-year plan to get herself on board. Katie would set sail for the first time in Fall 2003 as a resident director.
“I had this strong feeling that being on a ship that traveled around the world was something I needed to do—and I was right,” Katie says. “I credit Semester at Sea for developing my understanding of a global world.”
Since her first voyage, Katie has sailed as a staff member on two more full voyages, as well as several Homecoming and Reunion voyages. Her mother and daughter have joined her several times, creating some very special family memories.
“My daughter took her first steps aboard the ship with more than 100 people watching,” Katie says. “Moments like those remind me that these journeys are transformative at any age, at any point in your life.”
As an educator and a parent, Katie is determined to ensure future voyagers can enjoy Semester at Sea. That’s why she has named Semester at Sea as a beneficiary of her life insurance policy.
“Making a gift—no matter the size—creates a ripple effect for future generations,” Katie says. “Helping students to continue sailing means we’re helping create a more peaceful world through education, knowledge, and understanding.”