It has always been a dream of mine to see the northern lights. When the northern lights were announced that they were going to be visible along the east coast this past year, I was so excited to have the chance to catch a glimpse of them. Although in many places in the east, they were very visible and beautiful pictures were captured, there was only a slight glimmer of them in Pittsburgh. Going to Iceland has always been a dream of mine for the main factor being the northern lights. It’s been number one on my bucket list since I found out what a bucket list was, and I am about to hopefully be able to check it off. Upon deciding to go on this trip, I found myself unable to stop telling people that I was going, and everyone’s reaction was very similar; they always said how jealous they were I was going to see the northern lights. Despite the fact I may be very overwhelmed during the trip from international travel and all the information I will be trying to digest, when night hits and the sky comes out, I’m excited to be able to look up and just find peace in the beauty of nature.
Taking part in this experience and trip to Iceland is going to be so valuable to my experience as a student. There are very unique skills I will learn that are very hard to learn unless you take part in an experience like this. Conversing with locals, learning of different energy types and the sustainability aspects of things, as well as learning of a new foreign culture allows me to build diversity in my knowledge. Taking time to appreciate the beauties that Iceland has to offer will allow me to become more aware of my surroundings. It’s very easy to get caught up in the academic side of things as an engineering, but it’s crucial to look around in life and take in all that the community has to offer. I believe that witnessing the northern lights and all that Iceland has to offer to me will allow me to grow a greater appreciation for the little things in life and appreciate spontaneity in my life.
I am excited to be inspired by the beauty of Iceland and being able to share this experience when I return with those around me!
Swanson School of Engineering 