An eye opening experience into renewable energies and the culture of Iceland Past Review

By (Industrial And Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University) - abroad from 05/13/2014 to 08/23/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Until attending the GREEN program, I never knew how much one could do in a 10 day span. The experience utilized every second of the day through education and adventure allowing students to not only gain understanding of renewable energies and the culture of Iceland but a whole new way to view everyday life.

Review Photos

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad Photo The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad Photo The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad Photo The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was unique in the sense that what you learned in class at the university, you were able to go out into the field and see first hand.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Along with guides from the GREEN, the program is led by local guides who are eager to share not only the education their country provides but immerse the students in the local culture.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing arrangements were private enough, you did not feel as if you were being disruptive while bonding with other students at all hours however they living arrangements were authentic, local and not your typical hotel.

* Food:

Every meal was full of authentic Icelandic food as well as food for those who are picky eaters. For a few meals, there is the opportunity to actually see where the food was grown that you are being served.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The GREEN staff, local tour leaders and university staff create a family like atmosphere where ones safety is never questioned.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

All meals are provided, the only money spent was on souvenirs!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The various outdoor activities that expose the beautiful landscape
  • Taking classes from various professors in the local university
  • The GREEN staff! (:
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Focus on being in the moment. The GREEN program and staff push you beyond your boundaries, make sure you embrace every obstacle or challenge. Every second of the trip is a once in a lifetime experience.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.