The Good Life Gap Semester in Maine

For me, Seguiland acted as an atmosphere that allowed for peace and deepened my connection to myself, others, and nature. I have never felt more alive, engaged, inspired, and amused then at my time at Seguinland. The classes were deeply impactful for me and the lessons I learned continuously act as guideposts for all that is to come in my life. My experience at Seguinland acted as an outlet for self-reflection, memories, food, laughter, and friendships that will forever be an integral part of my growth and identity. My gratitude for this experience is life-long because this experience encouraged me to try new things and understanding what my dreams and goals are.

I chose to take a gap year very late in the summer of 2024, and in the midst of confusion and panic about what to do with myself, I found Seguinland Institute. I have been ever grateful to have been offered the opportunity to join in the wonderful, living and breathing community that makes up that small area of Georgetown and reaches out across the world.

Seguinland Institute gave me the pause, reflection and rejuvenation that I desperately needed. I cannot express how free I felt—within myself, with those I spent time with, and in the natural world. The blended aspects of the program: good food, conversation, conservation, good books and community are all so vital, and I found childlike wonder in a new way every single day.

I cannot recommend this program enough. If you are someone who likes to garden, someone who likes to cook, someone who plays instruments or likes to climb trees—truly, whoever you are, you will be welcomed and loved in Maine. I can only hope that many more students exploring on a gap year can experience Seguinland!

I would recommend this program to anyone who is in a transition period between high school and college, especially those who are struggling to find their place. Seguinland helped me find out more about myself, its structured in a way to help people avoid distractions and push themselves to do something extraordinary. It also gives time to focus on self improvement by having weekly times of solitude which was a nice change of pace from the overstimulation lots of us are used to in our daily lives.

I really enjoyed my time at Seguinland! I learned a lot from the program and the people. The three courses were very informative and engaging. I wasn’t sure about morning yoga before I attended, but it became a wonderful highlight of each day. The teacher is a gem. The area is beautiful and the food is delicious. Cooking together was a super fun activity. It is a meaningful experience that I highly recommend. The staff are very helpful and if you have any questions about the program they are available to answer them.

I really enjoyed my time at Seguinland. When I arrived I got placed in the largest cottage with a bunch of amazing and unique people. From the start I felt accepted and an important part of the community we were forming. The ten weeks were filled with fun excursions, events, and projects. Every single staff member was warm and helpful. I felt like I could talk to anyone about anything. I had the unique opportunity to interview with the transfer station director of Georgetown and amazing artist which had a big impact on me and shifted my perspective on several things like the importance of community. There were countless teachings, memories, experiences, and friendships during my time at Seguinland that I will keep for a lifetime. I highly recommend it for anyone that is considering.

Plot: Much of the time at Seguinland is spent on adventures like hiking mountains, sailing seas, or exploring art studios. The program is jam-packed with various activities that are always being changed and added to, by students as much as staff. There are academics, but nothing that could be mistaken for a class period at a traditional school. You have fun and gain wisdom chiefly through experience.

Characters: The staff seeks to educate in a way that extends beyond academics and into mentorship. You can be earnest and vulnerable with them, and they will be there for you. The friendships you develop among students and staff foster an atmosphere of extreme trust and openness; like a breath of fresh air. They will be like your family by the end.

Setting: The small peninsula on the Back River where you live is surrounded by enchanting marshes and waterways. You are often free to wander them and get to know (and fall in love with) the wildlife; including the sweetgrass, the bald eagles, and Sally the seal. You will find yourself gazing at the Milky Way often and maybe even sleeping under the stars.

When my mom found Seguinland on a list of good gap year programs and showed it to me, I was a little apprehensive. 10 weeks in the middle of the woods? With people I don’t know? I was nervous to begin my gap year and I had been feeling some regret about my choice to take the year as I saw my friends having fun when they got to college, but the Good Life program at Seguinland made me so grateful for that choice. The people I met and the experiences I had changed my life, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything else.

My time at Seguinland was life-changing and has helped shape me into the person that I am. In a society of disconnection, it was so special to be given a space to step away from technology, immerse in the beautiful nature of Maine, and experience life wholeheartedly. I felt that the experiences offered were well-rounded and gave access to so many inspiring perspectives that reinvigorated my natural curiosity and creativity.

It was easy to feel at home with the amazingly supportive staff. I greatly appreciated their personalization of the program, remaining flexible and catering to the individuality of the cohort and its members. Above all, the program's emphasis on community was so unique and resulted in the warmth of a chosen family. The connections I made there will be lifelong!

I cannot recommend this program enough!!