What inspired you to travel abroad?
I've always wanted to do a study abroad, but it was extremely tough (scheduling-wise) because I am a Division I athlete and an environmental engineering major. However, after discovering that Drexel has a minor in global engineering, I was able to figure out a schedule in which I could embark on an intensive-study abroad for about two weeks.
Solheimajokull Glacier
Why did you choose The GREEN Program?
I chose to go to Iceland because Iceland is the most sustainable country in the world. Thus, I saw going abroad to this specific country as an incredible opportunity to learn about sustainable energy and living sustainably.
What was your favorite part about Iceland?
Super-jeeping through Þórsmörk a.k.a Thor's Valley!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
It was an incredible feeling to be on a study abroad and to be a part of a group of young students who all had a passion for the environment and sustainability.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The Green Program (TGP) has a partnership with Midgard Adventure, a tour operator and travel agency in Iceland. Thus, we were very well taken care of 24/7 in all regards.
Glacier hiking!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day involved waking up at 6:30 a.m. and having class from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Lunch was from noon to 1:00 p.m. followed by a surprise adventure or activity from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. After that, we had downtime and time to work on Capstone Projects from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. That left us time to hang out and chill between 9:00 and 11:00 p.m before bedtime.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I enjoyed the surprise adventures that TGP and Midguard would come up with the day before—it really kept us all on our toes and, in a way, forced us out of our comfort zones.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
We primarily stayed in hostels, but because it was such a large group of us we primarily took up the entirety of the place. I really enjoyed this living accommodation because it allowed us to really connect with the other students outside of the classroom. It was also very nice to experience authentic Icelandic food from the locals.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Expect one of the best experiences of your life time. Live in the moment and cherish it!
Would you recommend The GREEN Program to others? Why?
100% YES—it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see Iceland the way in which it is presented by TGP and Midgard Adventure.
Hydropower Energy Facility
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I think the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is simply the ability to experience another part of the world; this truly opens up one's mind and allows them to see the world through a different lens. From an educational perspective, it was incredible taking classes at Reykjavik University's School of Energy and really learning about a lot of environmental issues, topics, and solutions that aren't taught at my own university.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Traveling to Iceland made me even more passionate and excited when it comes to discussing, learning, and actually doing things that are beneficial to the environment.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, I think meaningful travel is a combination of many things. Firstly, it enables one to focus on making their own life better by discovering and learning new things about the world and oneself. Secondly, the connections you make and people you meet truly does make one's life “richer” while simultaneously exploring different communities and different types of environments to explore. Thirdly, environmentally speaking, I think meaningful travel is about being aware of one's footprint and doing what you can to help the places that you visit.
