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.
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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.

Sunday Afternoon Inspirational Coffee Chats

On a tranquil Sunday afternoon in Reykjavik, the charming aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, enticing passersby into a cozy coffee shop nestled in the heart of the city. The café, with its rustic wooden furnishings and soft ambient lighting, provided the perfect sanctuary from the chilly Icelandic breeze outside.

Seated near the window, bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sunlight, were two friends, Anna and Bjorn, savoring their steaming cups of coffee. They had been friends since childhood, their bond strengthened by countless shared moments and conversations over the years.

As they savored their drinks, Bjorn turned to Anna with a thoughtful expression. “You know, Anna,” he said, breaking the comfortable silence between them, “I’ve been thinking a lot lately about taking risks and seizing opportunities.”

Anna raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Bjorn’s sudden introspection. “Oh? What brought this on?”

Bjorn took a contemplative sip of his coffee before responding. “Well, I read this quote recently that really resonated with me. It goes, ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’”

Anna nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Ah, I see. That’s a powerful sentiment. It’s true, isn’t it? We often let fear hold us back from pursuing our dreams or taking chances.”

Bjorn nodded in agreement. “Exactly! And I’ve come to realize that life is too short to let opportunities slip through our fingers because we’re too afraid to seize them. Whether it’s chasing a dream, pursuing a passion, or simply speaking up for what we believe in, we owe it to ourselves to take those shots, no matter how daunting they may seem.”

Anna gazed out the window, lost in thought, as she reflected on Bjorn’s words. The bustling streets of Reykjavik seemed to slow down for a moment, allowing her to appreciate the quiet wisdom in his message.

“You’re absolutely right, Bjorn,” Anna finally said, turning back to her friend with a determined gleam in her eyes. “It’s time we start taking those shots, embracing the unknown, and living our lives to the fullest. Who knows what incredible adventures await us?”

Bjorn grinned, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “Exactly! Let’s make a pact, Anna. From this moment on, we won’t let fear hold us back. We’ll seize every opportunity that comes our way, and we’ll do it together.”

And with that, Anna and Bjorn clinked their coffee cups together in a silent toast to new beginnings, embarking on a journey filled with courage, determination, and the unwavering belief that, indeed, one misses 100% of the shots they don’t take.

Try it yourself!: Digital Bank Audio Assignments – Quote with a New Feeling