Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A summer of exploration! October 23, 2024

By (Environmental Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 06/16/2024 to 07/29/2024 with

SIT Study Abroad: Iceland - Renewable Energy, Technology & Resource Economics (Summer 2)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Being abroad in Iceland was an incredible experience. I loved the traveling and outdoor components of this program. I have never seen anything like Iceland's landscape--it truly looks like a different world. We were often able to go on hikes or explore on our own, and I felt incredibly immersed in nature throughout the program. It was also great exposure to energy practices in Iceland, from a technical, cultural, and governmental standpoint.

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.

The classes were informational and very interesting, but not very academically rigorous.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Our program leaders were amazing and the program was very cohesive and well planned.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in hostels throughout the program, but they were very nice.

* Food:

Food in Iceland is expensive, but many of the hostels have shared kitchens, and we cooked often throughout the program. It can be hard to get food when there are long travel days on the road.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Since we spent a significant amount of time in Reykjavik, it definitely began to feel like we were living in Iceland rather than just visiting. Locals are friendly.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not utilize any healthcare resources, but it seemed accessible and program leaders were willing to help. It may be harder to access healthcare during long travel days through remote areas. No vaccines required.

* Safety:

Iceland is incredibly safe. I never felt threatened or worried walking around, even alone at night.

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)

Iceland is very expensive, but you will receive a weekly stipend from the program that is helpful for food and other basic costs. I would recommend trying to cook in Reykjavik and Isafjordur.

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

We had a very basic Icelandic class that taught us very minimal phrases, but we learned the basics that you need to get around. Most people speak English, especially in Reykjavik.

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

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • Traveling throughout the country and exploring nature
  • Learning about local energy practices
  • Learning the culture
* What could be improved?
  • Class and research rigor
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew to bring clothes that were more suitable for rain!

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.