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.

The Secret Treasure of Vik

By Mariel Couvillion

Once upon a time, in the small coastal village of Vik, there was a girl named Freya. Freya was very adventurous and loved exploring the villages nearby attractions like Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Dyrhólaey.

One day, she was walking along the shore at Reynisfjara when she stumbled upon an old chest that was half buried in the sand. She was so excited! She loved exploring and adventure, but she had never seen anything like this before, so she dug the chest out of the sand. When she tried to open the chest, she realized it was locked. Determined to find the key to the chest, she left it in a safe but hidden location, so she could come back to it later.

That night when she returned home, she told her family about what she had discovered on the beach that day. Eventually, word spread around her village about what she had discovered, so everyone was on the hunt for the key.

Destination Poster for Vik, Iceland

After a few weeks of searching, one of the village’s fisherman stumbled upon an old key that was in his attic. Freya and the whole village returned to Reynisfjara to finally open the chest. Freya unlocked it and inside was Hákarl! There was enough for the whole village, so they all feasted the the delicacy that night.