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.

A Day in The Life – Icelandic Student Edition

As a college student in the United States, I often wonder what a typical day would be like for college students in other countries. I made a video to share my day as a student and then did some research to learn more about an Icelandic college student’s typical day.

A day in the life of an Icelandic college student can vary depending on factors such as the student’s program of study, extracurricular activities, and personal preferences. However, here’s a typical schedule that a college student in Iceland might follow:

Morning:

  1. Wake up: Depending on their class schedule, a student might wake up anywhere between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
  2. Breakfast: Enjoy a typical Icelandic breakfast, which might include skyr (a type of yogurt), bread, cheese, and perhaps some smoked or pickled fish.
  3. Morning routine: Shower, dress, and prepare for the day ahead.
  4. Travel to campus: Many Icelandic students commute to their college campuses, either by bus, bike, or car, depending on where they live relative to the university.

Mid-morning:

  1. Classes: Attend morning classes, including lectures, seminars, or practical sessions. Icelandic universities often have a relaxed atmosphere, with students engaging in discussions and group work.
  2. Break: Take a short break between classes to grab a snack, chat with friends, or review notes.

Afternoon:

  1. Lunch: Have lunch on campus or at a nearby café or restaurant. Traditional Icelandic lunches might consist of fish, lamb, or dairy products.
  1. Study sessions: Spend the afternoon studying in the library, student union, or a quiet café. Icelanders take their education seriously, so students often dedicate several hours each day to studying and completing assignments.
  2. Extracurricular activities: Some students may participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, or volunteer work during the afternoon.

Evening:

  1. Dinner: Enjoy dinner with friends or roommates, cooking at home or dining out.
  2. Relaxation: Spend some time relaxing and unwinding after a busy day. This might involve watching TV, reading, or engaging in hobbies.
  3. Socializing: Meet up with friends for coffee, drinks, or to hang out. Icelandic students often value social connections and spend time bonding with their peers.
  4. Homework and assignments: Spend some time in the evening working on homework and assignments or preparing for upcoming exams.
  5. Bedtime: Wind down for the night and prepare for bed. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for academic success and overall well-being.

Of course, this schedule can vary greatly depending on individual preferences, course load, and extracurricular commitments. Some days might be busier than others, with late-night study sessions or social events, while others might be more relaxed. Overall, Icelandic college students strive to balance their academic pursuits with social activities and personal interests.

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