Dark country, Cool rocks Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes taught in English are not at the same standard as those in Icelandic. My geophysics professor (Sigrun) was absolutely phenomenal, but other professors were clearly only at the University for research purposes. These classes were based on poorly written and organized powerpoint presentations that they simply read out loud. Attending class was usually a waste of time.

On-site administration of your program

I was not given any information about the University until I had registered my Icelandic social security number, which I wasn't able to get for a few weeks. There was almost no support for students not abroad through the European Erasmus program. I spent my first few weeks in Iceland not registered for classes and without any information from any type of support system.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived alone in a studio apartment. It was very lonely. Other international students lived in guesthouses but I was too late sending emails to landlords to get a spot in one (I didn't have internet access during this time). The guesthouse situation had some pros and cons. The houses were well-kept, clean, and homey. But problems often arose between students when people were being too loud or taking over the kitchen with friends. Also, they had to share kitchens with up to 10 other people, which could be stressful.

Food was never really an issue. Everyone cooked for themselves. The University cafeteria was reasonably priced and Iceland is pretty Americanized so most foods were the same. Even as a vegetarian in a meat loving country, I found plenty of options. Generally though, Icelanders are pretty unhealthy and sweets, chips, soda, and fried foods were everywhere.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I integrated myself a lot more than most other international students. I joined a women's hockey team, the student council for the geology department, and made some Icelandic friends. Meeting Icelanders can be extremely difficult as their country is tiny and most social groups are established when they are in their younger years. They go to university with the same peers from elementary school. Many of my international friends only spoke to Icelanders a couple times in their entire time in Reykjavik. Luckily my involvement in hockey and the student union gave me more chances to socialize.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Didn't have any health issues.

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Reykjavik is an expensive place. I got very lonely and unmotivated at the end of the semester and ended up eating out more than usual. Bus and pool passes were pricey and the beer/alcohol was expensive. Lots of student discounts though!

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• Apartment

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• N/A

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• International Students

• I was
• not on
• a program.

• More communication
• clear outline of dates/deadlines
• more motivated professors

The Avid Adventurer