Student and Deckhand Educator Alumnus Spotlight: Ben Heath
Name:
Ben Heath
Age:
31
Where are you from?
From Brunswick, Maine.
When/where/how long did you sail with World Ocean School?
I did a weeklong program as a student, and I worked on the Roseway as crew for about 3 months.
What is one of your favorite memories with World Ocean School?
One of my favorite memories is making and giving out paper plate awards to students at the end of a trip.
What was your favorite part of the daily routine while you were living on board?
My favorite part of the daily routine was cleaning the boat. It went fast with all hands working and the boat felt good after.
What do you remember about anchor watches/bunks/shore excursions/etc.?
One of my favorite memories is making and giving out paper plate awards to students at the end of a trip. I remember taking bearings at anchor watch and checking the bilges and batteries to record in the log. I also remember swimming in Provincetown and a shore excursion to a small island where we climbed a tree, saw deer up close, and hung out at a beach.
Who did you meet/get to know better on board?
I loved getting to know the crew, captain, and all the students.
What was your impression of the crew? Of the students?
My impression of the crew was that they were all intelligent, educated, passionate, and caring. My impression of students is that they were capable, willing to learn, and many “grew in” to the experience after a few days and by the end were loving it.
What might you say to students who are thinking about coming on board for a program? What might you tell their families who are worried about letting them come?
To students who are thinking about coming on board, I would say go for it! There are many experiences which will force you out of your comfort zone, and many supportive people who will be there for you. Same for families who might be worried. I would say the perceived risk is greater than the actual risk. All summer we had one student injury requiring a trip home, and it happened on land. I would also say the best way to build confidence is by exposure to new and sometimes scary activities, but safety is a high priority and success is closer than you think. The relationships formed on Roseway are deep, special, and can carry you through any challenge.
Did you learn anything from your experience? If so, what?
I learned that I wanted to pursue the field of Outdoor Experiential Education further in both academic and career settings.
What are your goals for the future? Do you see yourself being involved in any way with the maritime industry?
My goal for the future is to graduate college and work in the field of outdoor experiential education. That may include more maritime adventures.
Anything else you want to share with folks about World Ocean School?
In addition to the previous, I applaud the World Ocean School organization for their dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. That is not easy work and yet reflects their values and commitment to serving students of all backgrounds in a respectful and compassionate manner.
