My name is Jessica Ramos and I am a member of the Tall Ships Semester for Girls 2005 class. TSSG changed my life forever; the beauty and freedom of the sea capturing my heart and soul. I returned to San Francisco glowing with accomplishment. My overall state of mind improved because of this experience, and it has allowed me to make significant academic improvement. Tall Ships could only leave me to come back for more.

When Nettie called me last spring and asked me to enroll in TSEA’s newest program, Girls Summer at Sea, I didn’t hesitate a moment. Girls Summer at Sea proved to be a very different experience than TSSG. Sailing in California waters was much more difficult than I was used to (TSSG primarily takes place in the relatively calm waters of the Caribbean). It toughened me up around the edges a little more, and rekindled my love and passion for sailing out in the open vastness of the sea.

After the summer program, I knew I had to get back out on the water soon. I considered taking on a position as an apprentice with Ocean Classroom Foundation, a partner organization that leases TSEA their vessel and crew. Because of some classes that I have to finish up for school, I wasn’t able to take on that position. I was disappointed, but I figured I would always have time to sail in the years to come.

In November, Nettie offered me a job working for TSEA. Although I’ve never worked in an office, I was completely ecstatic and accepted immediately. I was so thrilled that I could be a part of the future of tall ships, and, even if behind the scenes, do something for the girls coming into the program that had changed my life forever.

After work one day, Nettie and I went to a Chevy’s night fundraiser for my former swim team. We were talking about the new TSSG program starting and defining my job description during that time. Nettie came up with the idea for me to be on the boat for the “at sea” portion of Tall Ships this year as an intern and advisor to the students. I was so excited I didn’t know what to do with myself! Not only would I be able to sail again, and in the Caribbean at that, but I would be incorporated into and helping with the program that I know and love so much. I’m very excited about my new “job description” and I’m counting the days until I embark on another voyage.

Until then, I will be working in the office, helping with the girls in the TSSG 2008 program and going to school. The TSSG 2008 voyage will be written up on the Voyage Log section of the website, so take a look and keep up with what we are doing!