In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon interviews Scott Marshall, who shares his journey from academia to becoming the president of Semester at Sea, a unique program offering a transformative educational experience through global travel. Scott explains the program's origins, impact on students, and importance of exploration beyond comfort zones. The conversation highlights the benefits of Semester at Sea in fostering social connections, cultural understanding, and personal growth. Scott emphasizes the value of taking calculated risks and embracing discomfort for self-improvement. The episode concludes with Scott sharing an inspirational quote about maintaining peace amidst life's noise. Listeners are encouraged to keep exploring and hustling.

Get To Know Scott Marshall President and Chief Executive Officer at Semester At Sea / ISE

Scott Marshall is the host of the As Unexpected Podcast and President and CEO of the Institute for Shipboard Education, a 61-year-old nonprofit that directs Semester at Sea, the world’s leading comparative study abroad program.

Prior to joining Semester at Sea, Marshall was a Professor of Management, Vice Provost and Interim Dean in the College of Business at Portland State University. Scott’s life-long commitment to global education and travel was born out of a study abroad program in Japan as an undergraduate. Scott, his wife, and their two children sailed on the Spring 2017 voyage of Semester at Sea, after which he joined the organization as Vice President of Academic Affairs. He has served as President since January 2020.

Scott Marshall LinkedIn Asunexpected

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Uncomfortable Growth: Scott emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with discomfort as a vital aspect of growth. The transformation from staying in one's comfort zone to experiencing new challenges is key to personal and professional development.

2. Understanding the World Through Experience: Scott and Aaron discuss the unparalleled value of immersing oneself in different cultures for a deeper understanding of the world. The Semester at Sea program exemplifies how travel and direct engagement with diverse environments offer an educational experience unlike any traditional classroom.

3. Challenge Conventional Paths: The conversation underscores the significance of breaking free from traditional educational and career trajectories. Scott's transition from academia to running a unique program like Semester at Sea highlights the benefits of redefining success and pursuing fulfilling paths that align with personal values and interests.

Show Overview:

00:00 Missed Opportunity: Semester at Sea

04:00 1963 Visionary Global Education

08:12 Reimagining Education: Semester at Sea

09:53 Youth Navigating Uncertain Times

13:03 Encouraging Personal Exploration

18:11 Cruise Concerns and Safety Debates

21:56 Semester at Sea: Unexpected Change

23:54 Comfort in Uncertainty

27:20 Embrace Exploration Beyond Comfort Zones