Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Go GREEN or be a sardine Past Review

By (Civil Engineering., University of North Dakota) - abroad from 08/12/2014 to 08/22/2014 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My experience with the GREEN program was absolutely worthwhile. I got to know so many different people in only 10 days, and we all had one thing in common- we want to rule the world!! ..But actually we all just share the hopes of helping to create a greener planet and a more sustainable future for the entire world. Everyday was a mystery but together, we made so many unforgettable memories from the crazy excursions we conquered to the endless nights my compadrés and I spent researching and just exploring this beautiful country. This program has opened my eyes to all the possibilities that lie ahead, and I can't wait to start my future in a renewable energy field! This trip was worth every króna; Ísland er dásamlegt land!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The GREEN program really encourages you to expand your knowledge and creativity in the renewable energy fields. I wish learning was always this fun, seriously. You truly get the best of both worlds by learning in a traditional classroom from professionals and by getting to see each functioning technology at various power plants.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

We were welcomed everywhere we went by various administrators. The GREEN program administrators were helpful, approachable, and lots of fun!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The beds were very comfortable, and there was adequate space for belongings. Showers were nice unless you run out of hot water, which is rare. Camping got a bit chilly, make sure all clothes are dry before going to sleep!

* Food:

The food was very good, and there were many sides to pick from! Eating was one of my favorite parts because it helped us adapt to the Icelandic culture.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We were around a lot more tourists like ourselves than the locals, but the tour guides did a great job with teaching us little things about the local culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There were no prevalent health issues during our program, and if there was I am certain that we would've received the care needed.

* Safety:

Follow the guide's instructions, and safety won't be an issue.

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)

Alcohol is expensive, and so is clothing/souvenirs.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try to buy at tax and duty free places, and don't forget anything because airports and shops are expensive.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Hostel
* 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?
  • hiking outdoors
  • the food was delicious
  • meeting new people
* What could be improved?
  • better internet for research on capstone project
  • more games for long bus rides
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I know now that leaving the country isn't so scary. If you approach every day with an open mind, you have the ability to have an amazing experience with the GREEN program. And I wish I didn't pack so much, my suitcase weighed 47lbs...

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 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.