I feel like I have been talking about my excitement for my upcoming trip to Iceland forever, and it is finally within reach! I am most excited to immerse myself in the natural beauty of Iceland, especially the possibility of seeing the northern lights- an experience that is on my bucket list! The overview and itinerary for this trip are what drew me to apply in the first place- with so many breathtaking things to see and learn about. I am excited to sight see and explore a place I’ve never been before in addition to learning about the sustainable practices implemented in Iceland’s energy and their exclusive history and culture.
Iceland’s unique blend of ancient traditions and modern sustainable innovations presents an incredible opportunity to explore a society that has thrived in harmony with its natural environment. The knowledge I stand to gain from this experience will help me appreciate how societies innovate and adapt to their surroundings. Learning how Iceland effectively and responsibly utilizes their natural resources will inspire me to think critically about how engineering solutions can innovate sustainably.
As an undergraduate student at the University of Pittsburgh, I recognize how valuable and rare this opportunity is. Many engineering students find it difficult to globalize their education due to the intense rigor of engineering curriculums, but Pitt’s commitment to global learning has made this experience possible for me. Studying abroad as an industrial engineering student gives me the opportunity to expand my perspective beyond technical problem-solving and consider the broader social, environmental, and cultural factors that influence engineering decisions.
This trip will reinforce the importance of interdisciplinary learning and global awareness in my field. By stepping outside the traditional classroom setting, I will gain firsthand insights into culturally diverse problem-solving, resource management, and innovation. These experiences will shape my ability to think creatively and apply engineering principles to the rest of my academic and professional career.
Ultimately, this journey will be more than just an academic experience- it will be an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Exploring Iceland’s history, analyzing sustainable energy practices, and possibly seeing the northern lights will leave a lasting impact on how I approach engineering challenges in the future. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and look forward to bringing back new insights and inspiration that will enhance my education at Pitt.
Swanson School of Engineering 