Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Iceland with The GREEN Program was the most incredible 8 days of my life. Past Review

By (Construction Engineering and Management, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University) - abroad from 01/08/2014 to 01/16/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Tangibly, I learned very much about renewable energy and the environment. The intangibles were equally or more valuable, however. I gained confidence in myself, a greater appreciation for the outdoors, and a renewed sense of adventure. This program was definitely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academic resources we had with The GREEN Program were extremely advanced. We were offered courses in sustainable energy, energy policy, and renewable energy and society in Europe's leading Renewable Energy College.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Iceland served as the ideal hands-on laboratory for the program. South Iceland Adventures and our team at Reykjavik University took great care of us. We were immersed in Iceland-specific outdoors activities that reminded us in a more personal and significant way how important the environment is and our crucial task of protecting it.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We were always comfortable and looked after responsibly. We got to stay in rustic guest houses as well as remote cabins.

* Food:

The food became repetitive but seeing as the majority of Icelandic food is imported, I am satisfied with how we ate there.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

South Iceland Adventures, our hosts throughout the program, created an atmosphere of respect and opportunity. They instilled confidence in us and by the end of the trip we all felt like real Vikings ourselves.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

This was essentially non-applicable, but the GREEN team covered everything and were ready in case something came up.

* Safety:

Iceland is the safest country in the world, with next to no crime. We enjoyed this peace of mind thoroughly while abroad.

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)

GREEN paid for everything (the program cost covered food)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? N/A
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? If you stay extra days or outside of GREEN's financial coverage, buy your meals at the grocery store and make them; do not eat out every meal.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* 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?
  • South Iceland Adventures and their attitude, as well as the culture of Iceland
  • The outdoors activities
  • The education/Reykjavik University
* What could be improved?
  • The cost was high
  • A smaller group size would make it more personal
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew more about renewable energy so the Capstone Presentation was not quite as challenging.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!