“Hello! My name is Kylie and I am a Political Science and International Studies major. During my Spring semester 2022, I participated in the UF in Iceland: Renewable Energy and Sustainability study abroad program. Travelling to Iceland was an incredible experience and one I will never forget! The week-long program focused on the innovative methods of providing renewable energy in Iceland through harnessing the resources of its diverse landscapes. Over 90% of electricity in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, is generated by geothermal energy! Throughout the program, we did site visits to a geothermal power plant, government/public institutions, businesses, and universities to learn from various stakeholders involved in promoting sustainable systems in Iceland. We also learned about Iceland’s history and culture by visiting museums and community centers in Reykjavik and interacting with locals at one of Iceland’s many heated pools. We visited the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, hiked snowy mountains and volcanoes, ate “geothermal-baked” bread, visited a greenhouse and pony farm, saw waterfalls, watched geysers erupt, and marveled at the only place in the world where you can stand between two continental tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park. Throughout the trip, we were surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and gained a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s unique culture emphasizing reverence for the environment. This inspired me to continue pursuing Sustainability Studies at UF as my minor so that I can eventually integrate some of what I learned about while abroad into sustainable policies at home.”
– Kylie Hay-Roe, UF in Iceland