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.

Brazil Trip, a retrospective

Growing up, it was a dream for me to travel abroad. When I was a senior in high school, my Geospatial Analysis class final project helped me determine which countries I should study abroad at. When I was presented with a storytelling opportunity to study abroad in Brazil, I decided to take it. Not only the class counted towards my major, I had the experience of a life time. I met so many different people and saw so many amazing animals that I’d see nowhere else. I learned about a new culture that I could educate many of my American friends about. My mother and I have traveled to many different Central American, European, and Middle Eastern countries, however, I’ve never been to the Southern Hemisphere before this trip. Heck, my mother has been to many more countries than me, but she has never touched foot in South America or the Southern Hemisphere. I hope to share this experience with her, as well as many other people, maybe inspiring them to travel abroad one day.