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.

Listening to Stories

I listed to the season 1, episode 1 of the Spooked podcast. This is the first time I have ever listened to a podcast. Right from the beginning, the use of sound effects, such as rustling leaves and distant whispers, creates a unease, drawing listeners deeper into the story’s haunting atmosphere. Additionally, host Glynn Washington’s narration adds an extra layer of depth to the tale, guiding listeners through the twists and turns of the unsettling journey and increasing the suspense with each passing moment.

The episode demonstrates the power of audio storytelling in evoking emotions and sparking the imagination. By relying solely on sound to convey the narrative, “Spooked” allows listeners to immerse themselves in the experience and form their own mental images of the eerie forest setting. The absence of visual cues increases the sense of mystery and leaves room for listeners to interpret the story in their own unique way, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative. Through its masterful use of audio elements and compelling storytelling, the first episode of “Spooked” peaks the listeners interest in the story.