The GREEN Program: Iceland, a life changing experience you won't forget. Past Review
By Kevin F (Mechanical Engineering., Rutgers University - New Brunswick) - abroad from 08/06/2014 to 08/15/2014 with
The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad
This program helped me develop a greater appreciation for the environment. We attended lectures at Reykjavik University, visited many facilities (Hydro, Geothermal, Biofuel), and went on various excursions to appreciate the natural environment. The staff was very informative and prepared to answer any questions one might have about the Icelandic landscape or culture. Working on the Capstone Project was very fulfilling as you were able to discuss different possibilities with those who share the same interest. Coming out of this program, you develop an appreciation for the risks and effort the Icelanders took to implement such widespread renewable energy systems and will be inspired to look into the energy field for your future.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
There is room to improve in the educational aspect of the program. The training courses provided beforehand helped introduce the basic concepts of each renewable system so we won't be overwhelmed with too much information during the program. The courses themselves helped establish what we've learned before while elaborating on the pros and cons of each system. The most engaging aspect was the capstone project, where students of similar interests collaborate on a unique project. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The guides have been nothing but helpful and informative. The relationship between GREEN and South Iceland Adventure is very strong and it shows through. The mentor was a great helping hand during the capstone project, pointing us in the right direction when things were unclear. The program itself was very organized as we were always on schedule. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The housing for this program included guesthouses, camp sites, and hotels. These accommodations were in rural settings (as most of Iceland is anyway) and the scenery around each location is gorgeous. If there you have time, it is worth taking a short walk around to enjoy what is out there. |
| * Food: |
During my stay in Iceland, I have never had one bad meal. All the hosts whether it is in the guesthouse, hotels, or restaurants provided delicious meals. There are also options for those with allergies or other food restrictions. All of the main courses are provided by the program. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Learning the Icelandic language is not necessary as most people speak English. However, if you take the effort to learn the basics, the locals will be impressed. Otherwise, the guides make sure you feel comfortable in the country and are very informative about Icelandic culture. Don't be afraid to ask them questions if you wish to know even more. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
The guides were quick to respond to injuries, although I have not experienced any serious emergencies during my time abroad. |
| * Safety: |
Iceland is one of the safest countries out there. Since most of this program consists of outdoor activities, listening to the guides and using common sense is crucial to your safety. With that in mind, it's alright to explore the area. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
All of the main meals are provided by the program. However, it is very likely that you'll buy snacks, extra meals, or souvenirs for yourself. Given the high costs in Iceland, it will be very easy to spend a lot if you are not careful. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $50 |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | No |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | The day schedule was given to us on an hourly basis. While this works in the sense that we would be more focused on the current activity, I would have liked to have a better idea of what the day would be like. |
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 Avid AdventurerThe 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. |
