With over 1,200 participants, Williams-Mystic is reflected in the voices of its alumni. We are an energetic, lively group, linked by an amazing semester spent studying the sea. Here, in their own words, are reflections on the Williams-Mystic experience.

"It might be in Connecticut, but it takes you as far away as you can imagine. It opened my eyes to an entirely different side of the world." F02, Mount Holyoke College

"It will challenge you intellectually, socially and physically. It will forever change the way you think about the world around you. You MUST do it!" F 92, Wellesley College

"Unlike many study abroad opportunities, WM can only be done as an undergrad. It can't be replicated after college. Don't miss it." F98, Mount Holyoke College

"It made me appreciate the rest of college so much more because I took more control of learning what I wanted and how I wanted." S00, Swarthmore College

"It reminded me that I really can be challenged and love it--and it reminded me that there are invaluable rewards to giving yourself over to learning new things (with science, in general, I had never trusted myself enough to go for it). And, I had FUN. Every day." F02, Wellesley College

"If ever anyone decided to sit down and invent the ideal learning experience, WM is what he or she would come up with. Choosing to go to Mystic is one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life." F95, Mills College

"The reflections are never-ending! There is no better way to describe Williams-Mystic than: wonderful, inspiring, invigorating, sleepless, awakening, and simply marvelous." F00, Tufts University

"You can always travel abroad later, but Williams-Mystic is for right now—seize it!" S99, Hamilton College

"Know that you are getting into something wonderful. It will push you for four months and end up being one of your most treasured experiences." S02, Harvard College

"Not only did I love the classes and the travel and the close friendships I've maintained, I'm amazed how 'small' the world is and the chance of meeting and networking with Williams-Mystic alums." F97, Williams College

"The friendships made then have become deeper over the years—I value these people more from the 25 years since, then any of us could have guessed at the time. That semester set the foundation of lifelong friendships as well as understanding of all things maritime." S78, Wellesley College

"Do it! Do it! Love it! Love it! As wonderful as it seems from the literature, it's about 50,000,000 times better and was a fabulous way to spend a semester." F01, Mary Washington College

"Absolutely once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can go to Europe anytime. Enjoy Mystic now! You'll never be exposed to such a unique educational experience again." S95, Smith College

"WM was the best part of my Dartmouth undergraduate experience (and I loved Dartmouth)." F84, Dartmouth College

"If you want an open mind, curiosity for life and learning, and to become a part of the wackiest, most supportive alumni body ever—consider Williams-Mystic!" S02, Wellesley College

"The combination of learning about marine science and environmental issues together with exploring maritime history and artifacts was unbeatable." F96, Connecticut College