One of the most amazing experiences I have ever had! Past Review

By (ENGINEERING., Trinity College - Dublin) - abroad from 06/11/2014 to 06/20/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Not only did I develop my interpersonal, communicative and team-working skills, I had the opportunity to do so with like-minded students studying the same/a similar degree as me. I received the opportunity to listen to professors carrying out leading work in their fields, and visit some of the most technologically advanced renewable energy power plants in the world. Furthermore, I gained an insight into Icelandic culture, and explored some of the natural wonders that the country is so well known for. On the educational front, I listened to several speakers who have conducted pioneering work in the field of renewable energy in Reykjavik University, and got to use this newfound knowledge along with research and existing knowledge to complete a comprehensive group project in a sector of our choice. This classroom experience, combined with the field experience gained from visiting various renewable energy power plants was the most stimulating and satisfying educational experience I have ever had. One of my favourite aspects of the program, was the balance between work and adventure. When not on amazing once-in-a-lifetime field trips, or learning in the classroom, we got the opportunity to immerse ourselves in one of the most amazing and incredible countries in the world. Whether it was snorkelling between tectonic plates, bathing in hot springs, caving, super-jeeping, hiking.....(the list goes on and on..), the program staff (using the word staff VERY loosely, they were more like best friends) did not miss out on showing us a single aspect of the wonders that Iceland had on offer. All in all, I could not recommend this program to students any more than I already have. Was it worthwhile? Absolutely and undoubtedly, and I don't think I could say any more to prove my point otherwise.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Fantastic resources with access to information from leading academic staff in the field of renewable energy. Great balance between work and adventure!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program was very well organised and laid out. Could not have run any more smoothly.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Having participated in other educational programs, I was surprised by the high standard of living arrangements provided for us.

* Food:

Excellent quality of food, with an awesome insight into Icelandic food culture.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everyone was very friendly and accepting, and I felt fully connected with the local culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

They were very well addressed from day 1, and were maintained at high standards throughout the program.

* Safety:

At times I felt the hikes were unprotected, however if you know your limits and are careful and observant at all times, everything runs smoothly.

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)

While there, the cost was low, as meals were provided. Only snacks and drinks had to be purchased. However, the initial cost of the trip and flights was substantial.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Very little. 3 meals were provided each day.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Discuss the possibility of subsidies with your university.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • 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 activities
  • The education
  • The people
* What could be improved?
  • Really
  • Not Much
  • At All.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? There is honestly not much I can say that I wish I knew before going on this program. If anything, I wish I was less apprehensive about the whole thing! (Going away with 40 people you've never met before can be daunting.)

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.