Iceland: Renewable Energy Innovation & Sustainability

As a biochemistry graduate student with a keen interest in sustainability, I find The GREEN PROGRAM in Iceland 2024 to be an exemplary initiative that aligns well with both scientific innovation and environmental stewardship. One of the program’s strengths is its emphasis on innovation. Iceland is at the forefront of geothermal technology, and participants have the chance to explore this field in-depth. The opportunity to interact with professionals working on the cutting edge of geothermal energy and sustainability can provide valuable insights into the biochemical aspects of environmental systems, such as the role of microorganisms in geothermal ecosystems. The hands-on fieldwork in Iceland is particularly valuable. Experiencing the practical application of sustainable technologies in a real-world setting allows participants to see the direct impact of these innovations on the environment. For a biochemistry student, this means observing how sustainable practices influence local biogeochemical cycles and microbial communities. Networking with experts in the field and collaborating with like-minded peers can be incredibly beneficial. The program offers a platform for interdisciplinary exchange, which is crucial for understanding the multifaceted nature of sustainability challenges. Engaging with professionals from various backgrounds can enhance one’s ability to approach problems from multiple scientific perspectives. Overall, The GREEN PROGRAM in Iceland 2024 is a commendable initiative for anyone interested in the practical applications of sustainability and renewable energy. For a biochemistry graduate student, it offers a valuable opportunity to explore the biochemical implications of environmental sustainability while gaining hands-on experience with innovative technologies. The program’s focus on practical, real-world solutions to environmental challenges makes it a significant and rewarding endeavor.

I went to Iceland with The GREEN Program in August 2022, and the experience was amazing! The course and activities were great; seeing glaciers, valleys, power plants, and more was awe-striking and helped me delve into how renewable energy can be implemented in a way that improves communities and protects the environment. Housing was great, as we spent most nights in the two guesthouses we stayed in during the trip and one night camping in Þórsmörk. As a trans woman, I was nervous about rooming with multiple people I had never met, but TGP did a wonderful job of accommodating me, and I was pleasantly surprised that all of the students I met were very accepting and understanding. Hiking through Iceland felt like something straight out of the fantasy books that defined my childhood, and I got to do things I've never done before, like walking on a glacier, bathing in a thermal river, and visiting the black sand beaches! I also believe that the course materials and Capstone Project were integrated into the trip well, and the learning was exciting and not very stressful at all. While group projects are notorious among many of my friends for being cumbersome and frustrating, my Capstone Project went smoothly, and I enjoyed working with my teammates. I highly recommend The GREEN Program's Iceland trip, especially for students who may not be sure about spending an entire semester abroad, and for LGBTQ+ students like me who are nervous and want a program that will support them.

The Green Program really allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and see places I never expected to visit. The other students who went on the trip we extremely fun to be around, and the program leaders keep us energized throughout the adventure.

It would be underrated of me to say that this was one of the most beautiful adventures I've ever experienced, I travel extensively and have never had such a beautiful perspective on life. Every day I got to learn something new, experience something new and strengthen bonds between people I now consider friends. I was shown a piece of the world that used renewable resources to get their needs met every day in a sustainable and innovative manner. I wish I could continue adventuring the world the same way!

I cannot recommend the GREEN Program highly enough! My experience with the GREEN team abroad in Iceland was an inflection point in my life, from which I can trace much of the inspiration and drive I found for my educational and professional pursuits thereafter. The staff and program were incredible and the group of students I engaged with were some of the best students I engaged with throughout college.The balance between in-class formatted and fun experiential learning was flawlessly executed, and I took so much more away from my experience than I ever expected to. The entire trip was incredibly well-organized, fun, and the GREEN program staff were supportive and helpful every step of the way. If you want to travel, learn, have fun, and be inspired to change the world, this program is for you!!

Going to Iceland was the best thing I have ever done for myself. I completely inspired constantly by the nature and the history of clean energy. This caused me to change my major to Environment Science when I got back to campus. This program also set me up with a great opportunity to go to graduate school in Iceland. I currently plan to do so, and a friend that I made during this program went back 6 months later and is having the most amazing time getting her Masters. The team is really incredible and a year later I am still in touch with the students and guides I met on this trip.

The Iceland program was incredible. Not only was it a fantastic opportunity to learn about multiple renewable energy types, but we got to learn about Iceland's history and how society/government played a role in creating a 100% renewable country. The capstone project also allowed me to learn more about different roles in industry as each group member has something new and interesting to bring to the table. More than just the knowledge, we got to team build with the entire group which made the travel arrangements awesome. We went to locations I would have never found unless I was a local and we even went camping in the valley of Eyjafjallajökull - try saying that three times fast. It was a beautiful experience which included a breathtaking nature walk. Snorkeling in between the Eurasian and North American faults was amazing as well, who else can say they swam where the world is being broken apart?. I would recommend this trip for anyone looking to learn about renewable energies while experiencing a country that has incredible scenery. I posted a video and would very much recommend checking it out to get a taste of what you will come to love!

The green program was amazing. I learned a lot of renewable energy and we did a lot of amazing activities. Our guides were absolutely amazing and really made the trip that much better. All the accommodations were nice and the food was great. Would highly recommend doing a trip with the green program!

I had a wonderful time in Iceland. I already new a lot about renewable energy but seeing it in person opens your eyes. The lectures were in depth because it wasn't a teacher lecturing about what they read or researched. The lectures are people who are actually involved in building, developing, or operating these energy processes. You also get to see the beauty of Iceland which I fell in love with and plan to revisit multiple times. Everyone is nice and didn't have a problem not knowing the language because only a few people don't know english. Our tour guides were phenomenal people who I wont forget.

Iceland is known around the would for its spectacular natural landscapes and is high on many people's bucket lists. The Iceland study abroad program with the Green Program was an incredible experience as I got to experience Iceland's incredible natural beauty first hand AND learn about the country's incredible green approach to how they have built their infrastructure. I am so fulfilled and grateful that I was able to see and experience Iceland by hiking mountain trails that overlook glaciers and volcanoes and scuba diving in crystal clear waters the divide tectonic plates in addition to visiting world-class geothermal energy plants as well as one of the first hydro-electric systems in Iceland. This study-abroad was the experience of the lifetime and made me fall in love with the Icelandic landscape, approach to life, culture, and people. The Green Program Iceland reinvigorated my passion for sustainability by learning how Iceland has developed to be as 'green' as possible gave me hope for the future of humanity and that I can make a difference by working in this field. Plus I've made friends for life with the people I explored Iceland with!

I went on the Iceland trip with the GREEN Program after I graduated with my engineering degree. It was a trip that was informational in areas that j enjoy, touched on critical thinking & research and presentation skills, and had some phenomenal experiences. I made some great friends, not mad to leave others behind, but overall, I went for the experience of Iceland and man, did I get it! Do not pass it up, you're not too old to do it, and you will love the adventure you're on!

I had an amazing time on The GREEN Program in January 2016. From completing an assignment through Reykjavik University on renewable energy policy before the start of the program to learning about geothermal energy in Iceland right at a geothermal power plant, there were so many great educational opportunities. I loved learning about renewable energy and sustainability in class and then having the opportunity to see how it works in real life. Between immersion in nature, meeting friends from around the world, and learning about Icelandic culture (like my favourite, the Huldufólk - Google it!), there was never a dull moment. Seeing Eyjafjallajökull and the northern lights were huge highlights for me. If I was still a student, I would totally go back!

The Iceland trip through the GREEN Program was amazing. It was very educational and allowed time for exploring. We were able to see Iceland from a locals perspective while doing tourist things as well. The university was beautiful and the staff was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. All the guides we had throughout the plant visits made learning fun and interesting. The hikes were breath taking (in a good way).

The GREEN Program: Iceland was the first time ever that I have ever been outside the country and the first time I truly traveled solo. Through this program, I gained exclusive access to the top energy and sustainability institutions in Iceland, alongside exploring its majestic landscape. As an energy engineering student, the GREEN program allowed me to explore areas of renewable energy that I couldn't explore in the states. How they ran the educational part of the program was absolutely fantastic. On a typical day, we would have lectured, which was typically taught by an industry professional and/or professor of Reykavik University, then later in the day, we would visit what we learned in class. This hands-on approach to learning allowed me to gain a better appreciation of different forms of renewable energy. Their adventure component of the program is one of the primary reason why I chose the GREEN program to begin with. I am an avid hiker and love exploring the outdoors. Through this program, I was able to cross off one or two things that were on my bucket list, one of which is hiking on a glacier! Overall the GREEN program accelerated my professional and personal growth since I was pushed outside of my comfort zone and engaged in world-class education in the fields of geothermal, hydroelectric, and biofuel. Definitely an experience I will never forget.

The most I took away from this program was a group of like-minded individuals that I will forever be in touch with. I did the program 3 years ago and I am continuously learning online by still being in contact with the program leaders and students. It was the absolute best way to travel out of the country while learning in industries you are passionate about, being completely emerged in the culture & people, and while feeling so safe with strangers that quickly become good friends. I talked about it so much when I got back, I convinced 3 friends to enroll in the program as well.

The land of fire and ice. I ended up going on the green program after meeting somebody in a bar who just got back. It was one of the best decisions of my life. The experiences I had while on the green program whether it was attending cultural events, playing Icelandic games, viewing waterfalls or sliding down mountains it was always an exciting and unique experience that I wouldn't be able to get anywhere else. I found myself randomly laughing because the trip brought so much joy to my heart and inspired a life long passion for travel. If you are looking for a one of a kind trip with one of a kind people this is the trip.

The GREEN Program was an absolutely incredible opportunity that I am so grateful for every single day. The length of the program fit perfectly between my internship and beginning senior year of college, allowing me to have flexibility in my study abroad experience which not many programs offer. The balance between adventure- hiking glaciers, snorkeling, camping- and in-class academics was perfect. I felt like I was nourishing both my mind and my body with this experience. The people on the program were incredible as well, I still keep in touch over a year later with both fellow students and even the leaders of the program because I felt so comfortable and welcomed by them. This program is so unique and valuable, and I had one of the best experiences of my life because of it.

You like having fun. Check. You like learning new things. Check. Do you love the Earth. (Obviously, check) Are you a little selfish and love bragging. Check. WELL DO I HAVE THE EXPERIENCE FOR YOU. I went on TGP to Iceland in May of 2018, and, being 100% authentic, I only signed up for this experience because I was juiced up to go to Iceland. Shallow of me, yes, but it was a life changing experience. My one track mind was opened up to something I have never imagined it would have been opened up to. The cultural experiences were second to none and my program coordinators (Dana Marlin and Helga Lucie) were incredible humans. Their knowledge, personality, and approachability were innumerable. The cliche tag line of ‘life changing experience’ is incredibly true with TGP. No joke, it changed my career path, passions, and made me a more creative and personable person. My one recommendation for anyone going on a TGP trip is to not hold back, say yes to everything, and experience life as best as you can in these 10 days. I have created meaningful habits and relationships that have shaped the rest of my life after my program. TGP: 12/10 would boop.

This program was a huge step out of my comfort zone for me, but I'm grateful I made that choice. The explorations that we were taken on were exciting and beautiful but also educational. My time in Iceland led me to new career goals while allowing my to explore my adventurous side.

Iceland happened in a whirlwind for me. It was the experience of a lifetime and had some of the greatest cultural and academic interactions that allowed me to grow as a person and as a student. Iceland allowed me to form relationships unlike anything I would have found at home in the States.