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.

Sulfur makes me smile

April, Abby, and Kaylie embarked on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, their spirits ablaze with anticipation. Their first stop was the Myvatn Nature Baths, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Icelandic wilderness. As they immersed themselves in the soothing geothermal waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Myvatn region, they felt a sense of serenity wash over them. With steam rising around them and the scent of minerals in the air, they let themselves be carried away by the healing power of the natural springs, indulging in moments of laughter and quiet reflection.

After a rejuvenating soak in the Myvatn Nature Baths, April, Abby, and Kaylie continued their Icelandic odyssey, making their way to the renowned Sky Lagoon. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with sweeping views of Reykjavik’s skyline, Sky Lagoon offered a blend of relaxation and exhilaration. As they luxuriated in the warm waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Iceland’s coastline, they marveled at the sheer majesty of their surroundings. With the cool ocean breeze on their faces and the sound of waves crashing in the distance, they felt truly alive, grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural wonder.

Emerging from their blissful soak in the Sky Lagoon, April, Abby, and Kaylie were greeted by a sight that took their breath away: the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. As ribbons of green, purple, and blue light illuminated the darkness, they stood in awe, their hearts filled with wonder at the magic unfolding before them. It was a moment of pure enchantment, as they basked in the celestial glow, feeling a profound connection to the universe and each other.

With the Northern Lights casting their spell overhead, April, Abby, and Kaylie felt a sense of awe and reverence wash over them. In the midst of such natural splendor, they were reminded of the beauty and fragility of the world around them, and the importance of cherishing each moment. As they stood beneath the shimmering auroras, they felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such magnificence, knowing that it was a memory they would carry with them for a lifetime.

As the night wore on and the Northern Lights slowly faded from view, April, Abby, and Kaylie reluctantly tore themselves away from the enchanting display and made their way back to their accommodations. Though their adventure beneath the Arctic sky had come to an end, the memory of that magical evening would stay with them forever, a testament to the power of nature to inspire and captivate. And as they settled in for the night, their hearts were full, knowing that they had experienced something truly extraordinary in the land of fire and ice.

The following day, as they bid farewell to Iceland and began their journey home, April, Abby, and Kaylie carried with them not only memories of their adventures in the Myvatn Nature Baths, Sky Lagoon, and beneath the Northern Lights but also a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. And as they looked back on their time in Iceland, they knew that they had been touched by its magic in ways they could never have imagined, their spirits forever changed by the beauty and grandeur of the Arctic landscape.

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