Absolutely zero regrets Past Review

By (University of Waterloo) - abroad from 05/28/2014 to 06/06/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned not only about renewable energy systems during this program, but a significant amount about myself. I learned to push beyond my limits and to persevere until the end. I gained a whole new appreciation for the environment and the natural wonders of the world, and a new sense of adventure. This program is, without a doubt, the most worthwhile thing I have done in my lifetime.

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 GREEN Program ensured that everyone began the journey on a similar knowledge level by providing a thorough introduction to the material covered during our time abroad through the pre-program educational modules.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The trip was excellently administered and there were no major issues during my time. The GREEN Program partnered with fantastic organizations (eg. Reykjavik University, South Iceland Adventures, etc) to ensure we were given the best experience possible.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in four different accommodations (including one campsite), and everything was superb, with delicious meals and generous hospitality at each site.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

With one of the world's lowest crime rates, I never felt unsafe or at risk during any of our activities. The guides and program coordinators ensured we were all well equipped and prepped before venturing out on our adventures.

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 not a cheap country to travel as most excursions and food items are somewhat expensive. That being said, there is no doubt that I got my money's worth during my time abroad.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100 on mainly souvenirs and additional food and beverage items I wanted.

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
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Visiting Thorsmork
  • Cave exploring
  • Snorkeling between tectonic plates
* What could be improved?
  • Pre-program information
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To bring more proper rain gear.

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.