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.