Professor Polack
Professor Polack, a distinguished computer science professor at the University of Mary Washington, possesses a deep curiosity for global exploration. Driven by a desire to broaden her understanding of different cultures and technological landscapes, she aspires to study abroad in countries across the world. Professor Polack's ambition to study abroad exemplifies her commitment to enriching both his own academic perspectives and the field of computer science as a whole.
View UMW Trip 2024
Iceland, where we spent weeks exploring the stunning landscapes of this Nordic island. One of the highlights of the trip was driving around the famous ring road, a 1,332-kilometer highway that circles the entire country. Along the way, we marveled at cascading waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and towering glaciers. We had the chance to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture, sampling traditional cuisine and learning about the country's history and geology. This unforgettable journey through Iceland's dramatic beauty left a lasting impression all of us.
View UMW Trip 2023
After leading a study abroad trip to Brazil and Argentina, where the students explored the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest, embarked on a captivating river cruise along the Amazon, and marveled at the breathtaking Iguazu Falls from both sides of the border, Professor Polack decided to create a photo book. With meticulous attention to detail, he curated a collection of photographs capturing the vibrant landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and joyous moments of the trip. I aimed to provide a visual narrative that would forever remind the students of their remarkable journey.

Bjorn and Olafur

By Mariel Couvillion

Out in the country, not far from Reykjavik, a sheepherder named Bjorn lived with his dog Olafur. Olafur was his best friend, and because he was an Icelandic Sheepdog, he also helped him with herding the sheep. Some days, after finishing their work, Bjorn and Olafur liked to go to their closest dog park, Geirsnef Dog Park. One autumn day, they did just that.

As the two were about to leave the dog park, a sudden storm swept across the sky. All of the sudden, there were intense winds, and it began pouring down rain. Bjorn ran to his car, and Olafur followed, but at some point along the way, Olafur and Bjorn became separated. Due to the heavy wind and rain, Bjorn couldn’t see two feet in front of him, and he knew that he wouldn’t be able to find Olafur until the storm passed.

A while later, the storm finally calmed and then passed, and so Bjorn got out of his car and began looking for Olafur. However, it was getting dark, and Bjorn had to return to his farm. He realized with sadness that he would have to return home without his best friend.

As soon as he got home, Bjorn made a poster to put up that he hoped would help find Olafur faster. The next day, he returned to Reykjavik and put the posters up everywhere while also calling for Olafur. Unfortunately, he did not find him. Bjorn went back to the city everyday in search of his furry companion, but it was without luck.

One day, a few weeks later, he finally received a call from a woman saying she had found Olafur! Bjorn dropped everything and went to meet her. Finally, he was reunited with Olafur!