In a time when countless maritime experts here and abroad are questioning the quality of the Philippine maritime higher education system, a good number of aspiring seafarers remain certain that this country produces world-class mariners so much that young foreigners would travel all the way here to take up a maritime course.

Case in point is Victor Jornwi Chu, a 25-year old Nigerian who perseveres amidst homesickness, financial constraints, cultural differences, and language barriers in pursuit of his dream of becoming a seafarer. For Victor, the joys and trials of studying abroad create a well-rounded person who is educated, cultured, and exposed to the ways of the world.