The GREEN Program: Iceland - I'll be back! Past Review

By (Chemical Engineering., University of Notre Dame) - abroad from 01/08/2014 to 01/15/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I had an absolutely incredible experience in Iceland with the GREEN Program. Over the course of 8 days, I was able to travel around Iceland, doing absolutely crazy things while learning from the Icelandic people about the importance of renewable energy in their country. I met a group of 40 students from around the world that all wanted to do the same as me - learn about renewable energy in one of the greenest countries in the world. We met incredible professors who taught us about renewable energy, both in Iceland, and in a global sense. We also had access to go in and explore the largest hydroelectric and geothermal power plants in Iceland - a science person or not, it was incredible. While learning all about renewable energy, we ran around the island (or I guess drove, in super jeeps, to be more precise), seeing the most breathtaking landscapes I have ever been exposed to in my life. Not only did we climb mountains and cross rivers (quite literally), but we did so while our experience was narrated by native Icelanders. There is honestly no other way that you could have such an authentic, eye-opening, and educational experience in a foreign country than I had with GREEN in Iceland. No matter the price tag or the time commitment, it was 100% worth it. I can't wait for my next GREEN adventure.

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

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There was a great balance between time spent in a lecture versus time spent exploring the actual field. For only an 8 day program, I not only learned, but also experienced much more than I ever would have in a semester course. We learned from great professors, as well as had access to the hydroelectric and geothermal plants in Iceland. The week was set up so well that it was really an adventure throughout the landscape of Iceland, and I didn't even realize how much I was really learning.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The GREEN team was a fantastic group to work with! Everyone was incredibly passionate about the program, and it showed in their timely responses to email, phone calls, and any other questions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We always had impeccable living arrangements. I always had a bed and opportunity to shower. We also got to stay at a variety of places, which was great to see a different taste of Iceland - from hotel to remote cabin.

* Food:

Meals were great! I was never hungry, and we got to experience quite a bit of the local cuisine.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The GREEN Team worked directly with South Iceland Adventure, an Icelandic group who really integrated each of us into the local culture. I really felt this connection brought the experience to an entirely different level because we had Icelanders with us the entire trip showing us around their country. The cultural integration was incredible.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any health problems while on the program, but I know they were very accommodating to anyone who had food allergies or health concerns prior to the trip, as well as anything that came up while we were there. Iceland is also easy to prepare for coming from the U.S. because no vaccinations are required. All that is necessary for the trip is an updated physical to make sure you are physically prepared to travel.

* Safety:

Iceland is one of the safest places in the world. I arrived a few days before the GREEN Program began to explore the city and other areas. Traveling alone, I felt very safe.

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)

After the trip and program expenses were paid, there was next to nothing that you needed to purchase yourself. I did some souvenir shopping and bought a few snacks here or there, but really you don't spend any of your own money.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $20

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Hotel
* 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?
  • Authentic adventure around the island. We hiked up an snow/ice covered mountain where we got to swim in hot springs and super jeeped through a river in over 100 mph winds, yet I felt safe the entire time.
  • Meeting an incredible group of people - both on the program and from Iceland. We still keep in touch!
  • An appreciation for both the renewable energy and the land on which it is harvested. I learned so much about renewables in 8 days that I could have never absorbed on a college campus.
* What could be improved?
  • More reading on current events in the energy field prior to the trip. Could have put the educational aspect a little more into perspective.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had done a little more research about Iceland before my visit and had planned some time to stay after the program. The 8 days were incredible, but I could have spent more time exploring the island and absorbing the country. Also, make sure to bring sturdy, water-proof hiking boots. I was so thankful I had mine!

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.