Junior Crew Reflection

10 days in!

July 28, 2023

As junior crew my experience has been quite different from being a student. For me it’s been fun having my own watch and doing the more difficult tasks. The down side of things is the amount of pressure you are put under, it really stresses me out at times. Getting to know the crew on a closer level and working beside them has been a time I will never forget.

So far this trip I loved working in the storm, as a student I was kept in shelter unable to see what goes on on deck. The heavy rain, lightening, and thunder was thrilling and exciting to me, it was tough work but made me love it all the more. 

At times it’s been difficult to fit in and be a part of the crew, not only is there a gap in experience but in age as well, so it feels like I’m out of place. It does feel nice knowing the plan earlier in the day so I’m prepared for it, but that’s what is expected of me, to always be prepared.

Being a sailor has never been an easy task and the opportunity that I was given, I know it will be life changing for me and it’s all for the better. I’m excited for what comes next, and the other challenges I’ll be faced with. Whether fail or succeed, I’m ready for whatever’s thrown at me.

-AJ 

Today was junior crews’ 10th day on the boat. The experience from going from a student to a junior crew you are helping to teach the students how to tie knots, put up sails, and about the different pins. Also junior crew are like role models for the students. When we were students we were being taught everything that we’re teaching them. As j crew we are treated like crew and we have to act like crew. The experiences are so much different and a big step up. 

-Allie 

Today marks junior crews 10th day aboard S/V Denis Sullivan and not one of those days has been wasted. The main difference that I’ve noticed between being a student and a jr crew member is the autonomy that is entrusted to you. As a student, your day is very thoroughly planned out so that there is little time spent being idle. While this definitely keeps you busy, you don’t have control over what you’re doing and minimal control over how you do things.

In contrast, jr crew members are given far more control in how you spend your time and it is emphasized that when off-program, you are completely in control of how you can spend your free time. For example, when students go on shore, there is always a crew member overseeing them and students are restricted as to where they can go, but as a jr crew member, if you have time off, as long as you inform the cook that you won’t be present for a meal and you can make it back in time for muster, you are given free reign over where you can go and what you can do.

-Charlie