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.

Cascading Tales: Exploring Iceland’s Waterfall Wonders

One of my favorite parts of Iceland was exploring the incredible waterfalls. My two favorite waterfalls were the Glymur and Godafoss, which I am going to highlight in this story!

Trekking to the lower viewpoint of Glymur waterfall in the midst of winter was an expedition into a world transformed by the season’s icy grip. The trail, though challenging, offered a mesmerizing journey through a landscape blanketed in snow and adorned with intricate ice formations. Each step brought us closer to the frozen spectacle that awaited us, a testament to nature’s artistry in the face of winter’s embrace.

As we ascended along the trail, the air was filled with a tangible sense of tranquility, broken only by the occasional crunch of snow underfoot. The surrounding cliffs were adorned with delicate icicles, glistening in the soft winter light, while the distant roar of the frozen waterfall beckoned us forward.

Upon reaching the lower viewpoint, we were met with a scene of breathtaking beauty. Glymur waterfall, nearly completely frozen, stood as a majestic testament to the raw power of nature. Its cascading waters had been transformed into a crystalline masterpiece, suspended in time amidst a backdrop of snow-covered cliffs and frosted trees. It was a moment of quiet reverence, a chance to witness the sublime majesty of Iceland’s winter wilderness in all its frozen splendor.