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!

The GREEN Program's study abroad to Fukushima, Japan is truly life changing. From touring facilities like JAEA and FREA that are working on new innovations in renewable energy and cleanup efforts, to seeing the exclusion zone firsthand, TGP offers an inside look on the aftermath of the 2011 disaster for international students. This is truly a one of a kind program and an experience of a lifetime.

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.

Participating on the green program - Japan was one of the best experiences I had! We participated in activities that constantly placed me outside my comfort zone such as trying new foods, hiking, kayaking, and experiencing my first earthquake :D As an engineering student, we often learn about the industrial processes of plants and of the equipment they use. However, we rarely actually visit a plant during our studies. As part of the program, we toured the Daini Nuclear power plant where we went inside a reactor, an experience that is not available anywhere else! We had classes that were taught by Professors from different Universities across Japan which increased my interest in nuclear power. The knowledge I gained during the program about nuclear power helped me land my first internship with GE Power in nuclear energy. I am excited to continue my learning of nuclear power and grateful to be a TGP Alumni!

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 had always wanted to go abroad to study but because of my rigorous engineering program I had no time to do the traditional one. Then I stumbled upon the GREEN program after hearing a fellow students trip to Iceland. After looking at everything that was offered I knew I needed to go to Japan. I was always interested in renewables and nuclear engineering so this was a fantastic way to get some insight on everything. On top of studying every morning we got to go on an adventure every day to explore japan and see all that the community there had to offer us. I made some life long friends there and I hold the memories I made high. My friends are probably sick if hearing those stories now but it made me want to go back and I can’t wait to adventure abroad again. This was well worth every penny and I couldn’t recommend this program enough.

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.

The Green Program blew every expectation I had out of the water. In just 10 days, I really learned so much, met so many amazing people, and immersed myself in another culture. It was so empowering to spend time with so many likeminded people. Everyone I met while on the program has a different background and different perspective; I was able to learn from my peers, not just professors. From this experience, I feel like my horizons were broadened and my passions were reinvigorated. Fukushima is a really unique place that not many tourists take the time to explore. The people there are so friendly and the countryside is so peaceful. We also got to take so many site tours that not many people have access to. Learning about nuclear power one day and then walking through a real power plant the next provides completely new insights. I genuinely had such a great experience; I definitely recommend The Green Program to anyone interested!

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.

Over my spring break I had the opportunity to come along on the GREEN Program's Japan trip, and it was amazing. It was incredibly educational, I gained a thorough understanding of the Fukushima disaster, and all of the cultural exploration outings we did were fantastic.

The Green Program - Iceland 2019 was, hands down, the most enchanting experience in my life (and I got my much needed break from Grad school work!). I loved the academic parts of it - engaging in conversation with experts in the renewable energy space and the classes at the Reykjavik University. They were more than happy to answer questions - no matter how technical or business-oriented they were. The highlight for me was the hike up a mountain with temperatures as low as -10`C (feels much colder cuz of the strong winds) and then jumping into a hot spring there - felt unreal - such conflicting feelings and emotions at that moment! Our tour guides - Erla & Bjarni were the best possible tour guides anyone could ever ask for. They were knowledgable, funny and had a great sense of humour. The people I met through this program shared the same concerns and purpose, which was to strive toward sustainability. It was great interacting with fellow students. The capstone project was.. alright. We all did learn a bit, but working on it for just 5 days can only get you so much. The Negatives? - The food. Oh, wait, don't get me wrong. The food, especially at Midgard was really good (the Swedish chef there is amazing!). But as a Foodie, I was looking forward to trying out the local cuisines and dishes (that is what was mentioned in the program description). But all we got served was sandwiches, pizzas, beef chilli, fried chicken/fish, etc. It was almost always an all-american buffet. It was only on our final day there, at Reykjavik, when we were left free - and I managed to try out 4 of Iceland's specialty dishes from 4 different restaurants just for lunch (each specializing in one of those dishes). Also, the only other thing that we were all talking about was that there was no plan to see the Northern Lights. That was a bummer considering that the beginning of March is one of the best times to see it. But, overall, this adventure was unbelievably great! I'd give this experience a solid 9/10.

I had such a great time in Iceland and with the people I met. I never do things by myself but i got up the courage to enroll by myself, it was the best decision I ever made. I learned so much about myself and now I can say I travelled abroad alone! We ate Icelandic foods and did so many activities I can't remember them all! I made lifelong friends here and I would do it again in 2 seconds.

This is a wonderful program with a good mix of traditional classroom learning and nontraditional learning of the cultures and technologies available in Iceland. I highly recommend this trip, The Green Program offers a unique travel experience that you can''t get on your own.

You'll learn a lot, make a lot of new friends, and come home with incredible memories. The program is developed really well and you get a good balance of classroom lectures, tours, and leisure time to hangout with the others on the trip.

Peru was an amazing country to visit. It was my first time leaving the US and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The program was very well organized and informative. In only 10 days we were able to experience everything in Cusco.

From the housing to the food to the opportunities.. this trip was amazing! Erla and Bjarni were fabulous guides who made each experience more in depth with their own stories and information! 5+ stars for this amazing program and leaders. The housing was accommodating, food was AMAZING, and the experience was unlike anything I will ever get again anywhere else. I made lifelong friends and traveled alone for the first time, but felt right at home with my new GREEN family. I can't wait to possibly attend another program!

This program was an amazing experience that taught me so much about renewable energy. Getting to experience Iceland with a group of like minded people made the experience even better. The program guides are very knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable. I definitely recommend it anyone, especially if you have never traveled before.

My excursion to Japan through The Green Program opened my eyes to current political, social, and economic issues surrounding sustainability that exist in Japan and around the world. This is typically the extent of knowledge that I would expect to receive based on how academics are run, however The Green Program takes it numerous steps further. Taking on a whole new world in the region of Fukushima, my fellow students and I were living like locals. From the Onsens in the Ryokans, to Samurai School, to calligraphy classes, The Green Program made sure we gained a better understanding of Japanese culture all while having lots of fun. Our guide, fluent in English and Japanese, didn't spare any details in teaching us about Japan. In the classroom we learned the facts, and on site we became a part of the experience. I can honestly say that the method of using the world as our classroom was very effective in teaching me about nuclear and renewable energy. I am forever thankful for The Green Program and how my experience enabled me to realize that I can effectively share my knowledge on serious matters while still having fun. The capstone projects created by my fellow students made it very clear to me that our world is in good hands.

My experience on the Green Program completely demolished my (already high) expectations. The educational experiences (site visits, classes, capstone projects) were ones that I couldn’t have had in a different environment, and ones that I feel have revamped and reinvigorated my already intense passion for sustainability issues. The cultural experiences were amazing as well—there were way more activities along these lines than I expected, and they were all fantastic! As someone studying Japanese for a couple of years now, it was great to be able to get a feel for Japan in different settings, as well as practice my language skills every day. Overall, the Green Program is worth every cent. Not only because of the experiences you’ll have, but because of the people you’ll meet and the friends you’ll make. I’ve been telling everyone since I returned that it was the most intellectually stimulating experience of my life and I truly believe that. It’s also just tons of fun! 10/10!

Receiving the email to apply for this program was a blessing in disguise. For years, I have been dreaming of returning to Japan and helping clean up the remnants of the 2011 Disaster. Which is one of the reasons why I decided to study Nuclear Engineering. So you can imagine when I received the email, I knew this trip was the perfect one for me. When I arrived to the program late, everyone was incredibly welcoming. Each day ended up being packed with the coolest things I have ever experienced: tours to facilities and agencies doing incredible things to help Japan, things that I have wanted to do. My favorite part was visiting Fukushima Daini and touring inside the reactor buildings. I have been inside a few running reactor plants, but since Daini is being decommissioned it was radiologically safe for us to going inside the primary containment vessel and underneath the control rods (something I have never been able to do before). The JAEA was also super cool because that is where they build and test the robots that go into Fukushima Daiichi for surveillance and clean up. The FREA talked to us about all of the interesting and feasible renewable energy sources they are utilizing now, which is a huge confidence boost knowing that there are various renewable energies being successful in Japan. The cultural immersion was awesome for a program that wasn't a home-stay. It was really fun getting to stay at traditional hotels, experiencing the multiple onsen, and interacting with locals. I can honestly say that my home-stay in 2015 was incomparable to this trip.