Orientation

Today was the first of two days of orientation in the hotel (the ship is returning from its enrichment voyage) was long but good.  We learned a lot about life on the ship, especially about issues around student life.  We also got a chance to do a library presentation to the faculty to let them know about our services and resources, and especially to remind them of the unique situation on the ship:  slooooooooooooow internet access.  In the coming weeks, I imagine we’ll have lots of opportunities to reintroduce our students to the pleasures of books.  

After orientation Lisa and I headed out in search of a few final things for our trip (me, a toothbrush) and found our way to a lovely local pub.  A pint later we were on our way again, me back to the hotel (sans toothbrush; Boots was already closed) and Lisa in search of Malaysian food.  To my delight, she found some and we had a lovely dinner in my room before retiring.

Here Lisa and I are at the opening reception.

Here is our Academic Dean Maurie McInnis with some opening remarks to all of the faculty, staff, and families.

I'm so very impressed with the level of dedication of everyone involved in this venture, and quite honestly, amazed that it gets pulled off, as Maurie said, three times a year!  Here are some interesting stats:

535 students from 236 different schools
10% from UVa
49 international students
730 total people on the ship, including 180 crew members

And to think that we'll all be together for 67 days.  With that in mind, I leave you with this Zen moment, the duck pond behind the hotel...