The day has arrived!

Hello, my name is 2/C Eduardo (Eddy) Ramos and I am from Miami, Florida. I am an International Maritime Business major who will be representing Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Shanghai, China in the upcoming Spring 2012 semester. Myself along with other fellow cadets have been privilege enough to be able to take part in this great opportunity to not only embark in a new journey but to grow as individuals. There has been a lot of talk for the past three years between all the cadets who decided to interview for this opportunity our sophomore year. However, I had my mind made up when I came on a school visit while I was still a senior in high school that I would love to take part in the Chinese Exchange Program.

Being from Miami I am used to being away from home for long periods of time, and when I take part in internships that period is extended. However, leaving for another country is a different story, it is a new chapter in my short book you may call life. Not many people can say they have visited China, studied in China then again not many people can say they are part of Massachusetts Maritime Academy. As I sit here looking at the clock tick down I cannot believe that I will be jumping on a plane and on my way to China in twelve hours.

When the opportunity to be considered for this program was provided I jumped at it right away. It is funny how time flies since it feels like just yesterday that I was sitting down with Lt. Deegan and Dr. Ghosh interviewing to be selected. I remember how nervous I was for that interview and that feeling has returned as I finish packing for my trip. I cannot wait to learn about a whole new heritage as well as expanding my education. As well as visiting some of their prized landmarks such as The Great Wall of China, The Forbidden City, Beijing and many more. Hopefully I can see my roommate He Zhenyu (William) that I hosted during his time at the Academy.

This is all for now, I will be keeping everyone posted during our stay at Shanghai Maritime University as well as posting pictures. Hope everyone has a wonderful day or how they like to say in Chinese Wǒ xīwàng měi gèrén dōu yǒu yīgè měihǎo de yītiān (I hope everyone has a wonderful day)


2/C
Eddy Ramos