The GREEN Program

I often felt lonely in attempting to make meaningful, positive, change in the world, especially in consideration of our planet. Individual action seemed trivial and connecting the dots from my own experience to global impact was inconceivable. My time in Belize allowed me to bridge that gap and believe that community action is not only valuable, but can lead to a global transformation. Building relationships and surrounding myself in community striving to preserve, protect, and innovate, enabled my new sense of belonging and hope. Time in, on, and around the water, reinforced my desire to live in a coastal area and build a career in conservation. TGP in Belize provided experiences I will always remember and allowed me to create friendships I hope will last a lifetime.

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.

It encapsulates the essence of my short-term study away program in Iceland on Sustainable Energy and Innovation, transcending geographical boundaries to embrace a rich tapestry of cultures and knowledge. It's a narrative of personal and academic growth, showcasing the transformative power of global exploration on one's perspective and understanding of Environment and Energy. I highly recommend this program.

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.

I truly enjoyed my time with The Green Program in Nepal. It was an incredible trip, we were able to learn about the culture and stay in a remote village while learning about the electricity distribution problems. It was amazing to have hands on experience with building a solar micro-grid.

I enjoyed every second of this program. From the online learning course with Professor Ortega to the field trips and adventures within Peru. I was nervous to go on this trip and to even apply for the program, but the team at TGP was great at connecting me with alumni and answering all of my questions. Once I began this program I learned I had nothing to worry about! I felt safe the whole trip and the entire team was so welcoming and full of positive energy. I wouldn't go back to change a single thing. Although maybe things did not go as planned, like my suitcase not arriving with me, I had so much fun, and Melissa and TGP partners were assisting me with that issue to make sure that I had everything I would need. They really care a lot about you and want to make sure you are having a great time! I definitely learned some valuable life and work skills on this program that I will take with me where ever I go.

It’s so hard to put into words how incredible of an experience this program was. It was the beautiful combination of sustainability education, food and culture immersion, adventure, and community involvement. Everyday was incredible and filled with incredible activities, food, and people. I met so many cool people with diverse backgrounds yet a common passion for the environment. Definitely recommend the program to anyone interested.

It was overall great. By far the worst thing I can say is they don't give detailed plans till the day before, this is to keep the plans flexible. Academically, you'll understand how the grid of Iceland operates, why it is the way it is, and where it's heading. Very much an overview, but it does get into the details a bit without taking up a significant portion of the trip. Amenities were great and very homey. The sights were amazing. Like the real meaning of the word amazing, awe-inspiring. The cultural aspect of the trip was a little lacking, but definitely got a good taste of the culture.

I'd been wanting to travel with the GREEN Program for a long time and I have to say it was truly the best adventure I've ever experienced in my life. The GREEN Team is really communicative, helpful, and present from the time you sign up to even after your travel. I felt really comfortable travelling abroad by myself because I knew the team had my back the whole way. The program is dynamic and each day’s itinerary is unique and a surprise. Now, I don’t want to spoil any surprises for future travelers, but I promise every day is guaranteed to be packed to the brim with fun (and fantastic food). We took day trips to witness first-hand sustainable change and development in Peru as well as different climate and industry issues. The class was engaging and discussion based – I really liked this because of the many complexities that come with water resource management in Peru. Every hotel and hostel we stayed at was comfortable and our guide was very accommodating. I definitely made invaluable memories on this trip and I strongly recommend this program to anyone who wants to experience a new country, meet incredible people, develop field skills, and have the adventure of a lifetime!

I truly did not know what to expect for this trip but it blew me out of the water. The friendships I made in nine days were incredible. Everyone so was intelligent and curious but also funny and entertaining. The scenery was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and our guides were very good. Overall 11/10 trip.

This was such an incredible trip for my first time visiting Latin America. I've traveled abroad a few other times, but mostly either with group from start to finish, or to Europe, where solo travel is fairly easy. This program was a fabulous hybrid that allowed me independence to travel both to and within Peru, but plenty of support when needed. The food, lodging, and staff/educators were incredible, and the mission of sustainability aligns so well with my values. Fabulous group activities, learning opportunities, and friends to be made. This was my second trip with TGP and I am so looking forward to future trips. Highly recommend!

This two-week online course taught by Dr. Sagar Sharma from Kathmandu University about the Ethics of Sustainable Development was engaging and eye-opening. This course focused on the importance of ethics in sustainable development and the theories and practices behind it. Dr. Sharma encouraged us to engage in insightful, inclusive, and head-scratching discussions in an open and safe (virtual) environment. After taking this course I will definitely approach future projects and problems from a new, different, and more inclusive angle. Additionally, each student was required to complete a Capstone project that was focused on sustainable development. The capstone project provided an opportunity for people from all different places and backgrounds to come together and collaborate to develop an innovative solution to a worldwide problem. I loved having the opportunity to work along side passionate people to develop a creative, ethical, and sustainable solution.

Travelling to Peru with The GREEN Program exceeded many expectations. In the period of only 10 days, I was able to be immersed in Peruvian culture, try many delicious dishes, be more aware of sustainable practices, gain insight on the environmental and social issues, access exclusive water facilities, adventure through unique landscapes (eg. hike Machu Picchu and Tipon, zip-line through the mountains of Santa Teresa, canoe in amazing scenery) and make true friendships ... the list could go on. I feel extremely fortunate to be part of TGP and believe it has allowed me to grow personally and professionally. I highly recommend taking the opportunity to go abroad with TGP as I will definitely apply the various skills and sustainable mindset I've developed to future jobs and projects.

The GREEN Program's Peru trip was an incredible experience. From eating local cuisine to seeing the community and really getting a taste of the country to visiting the incredible sites, the program was packed with things to do and see.

If you are looking for a study abroad experience, you have to check out The Green Program! The Green Program provides an amazing program that is also compatible with the schedule of busy college students. The 10 day program was jam-packed and full of knowledge. The Green Program first ensured that travel and accommodations were comfortable for all of its attendees. I enjoyed that along with the educational aspect of the program, The Green Program also highlighted the importance of learning the Nepalese people and their culture. We visited World Heritage UNESCO sites, visited renewable energy sites in the Kathmandu Valley, and ate traditional foods throughout the trip. We also were able to transform the knowledge we learned from Kathmandu University into action when we installed the micro-grid system in a rural Nepalese village. The Green Program truly executed its mission in this program to utilize the world as a classroom. The students were encouraged to collaborate with the local people during the project, to learn more about the Nepalese culture, and to have a well-rounded understanding about the installation of the solar panels. It is also important to mention how the program coordinators ensured that everyone on the trip was safe and welcomed. The Green Program are definitely community builders who enabled all of the attendees to create lifelong relationships. I am extremely excited to attend another program led by The Green Program, and I am proud to be an alumni of an incredible organization.

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!

My experience in Japan was more than incredible. The whole organisation was perfect, the program was exciting and well-though, a combination of learning from incredible teachers and professionals, immersing in the culture of the locals and getting to know them and their traditions, and having fun by doing a project together, kayaking, doing karaoke and so much more! I also made new amazing friends who taught me so much! I will be forever grateful to the amazing team of The GREEN Program!

Our trip to Japan with TGP in August 2019 was a trip like no other. Educational and cultural experiences were plentiful, yet we were also allowed the time to get to know and learn from like minded individuals from across the globe. In the mornings, we were lectured by experts on a variety of topics and in the afternoons, a series of interesting and exciting site visits. We visited the site where the tsunami hit and heard the stories from locals about the impact that the disaster has had on their community and how they hope to continue striving forward. We had tours and lectures at the Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, as well as the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. Perhaps the culmination of the trip and undoubtedly the most exciting site visit for all was the Exclusion Zone tour and the opportunity to go inside the Daini Nuclear Power Plant. This was a fascinating chance to learn about the process of decommissioning, which can take anywhere from 30 - 40 years. An incredibly exciting part of the trip was developing our "Capstone Projects," an entrepreneurial solution to a real-world issue that our changing climate is facing. I loved the TGP model of experiential education and using the world as your classroom, so much so, that it has inspired and shaped my undergraduate thesis! Throughout my time in Japan, I learned so much and am so grateful to all the locals that I met for sharing their stories with me. Wherever we went, the parting words were words of gratitude for visiting Fukushima. They encouraged us to tell our friends all that we had seen and learned, and hopefully one day to return and share in the joy of the progress that I have no doubt will be made. From all the locals that we had the fortunate of meeting with and talking to, there was one thing that shone through every time; hope. These resilient locals who returned to their homes in the aftermath of the disaster are working together to build hope and push the Fukushima prefecture to become even better than it was before and I have no doubt that they will succeed. If you are thinking about going on a trip with TGP, I would say stop thinking about it and just do it! Undoubtedly the most interesting, informative and inspiring 10 days of my life and I have no doubt that this trip will continue to shape me for a long time to come!

I was absolutely blown away by this program and how perfect it was in terms of being personal, educational, and exciting all in one. The program met my educational objectives well and was in a nice small group (9 people) that allowed us all to get to know each other during the trip and build great friendships. Moreover, the GREEN program cared about each of us personally from our program coordinator to our trip long guide to the pre-program information. A couple stories to tell to get my point across, because when I say they care about YOU, I mean it. I traveled to Peru with another student attending the program from the USA and we were delayed somewhere between 4-6 hrs from our original arrival time. We knew we would be late while still in the States and were worried about further delays. The program coordinator called us individually to help orient us before leaving for our next transfer and then was extremely helpful once we arrived in Boliva where our next delay happened. I was able to receive emails back (the only way I could communicate out of the states on wifi) from the GREEN program travel coordinators within seconds with updates back and forth. Upon arrival in Cusco, we expected to have to grapple with traffic in the city to meet the group which was long gone from the airport. Nope! Our guide met us at the door and personally drove us to meet up with the group! Thank you! Now, the bigger story. While in Peru, I was very unlucky and got sick. VERY sick. After spending the whole night sick, the program coordinator helped me navigate the language barrier & fever sickness to get help and get to a hospital. She then stayed with me at the hospital for the whole day to make sure I was taken care of and not panicking. She brought her laptop to the hospital while I slept and left it with me to watch netflix to keep calm since I couldn't communicate with any of the nurses or doctors and was very scared about what was happening to me. The only time she left my side was when she had to check in with the rest of the group after which the whole group walked across the city to the hospital to visit me and say hello. She and a few others offered to stay with me there that night, but I wanted them to go back to the hotel and sleep since I was calmed down and on medications to help me at that point. Last but not least that night, the tour director stopped in on his way home for the night to bring me a rose he found at the market to make me smile. I don't know how I would have made it through that nightmare without the fantastic crew with the GREEN program. They made sure I was safe and cared for at a reputable clinic and leaving the next day well enough to travel home. Though a very sad way to end the program, I cannot express enough how much they did for me over those couple days. Fantastic program, incredible people, and great value. This was my second trip with the GREEN program and I recommend it to anyone and everyone interested in sustainability and adventure!