Before being here in Iceland, I assumed very little could grow here due to the country’s harsh climate. I previously imagined the landscape as very rugged, barren, and having little vegetation due to the extremely cold temperatures and strong winds. One moment that really stood out to me happened shortly after we left the airport and began driving toward Reykjavík. Our tour guide, Olaf, started explaining the landscape we were driving through and how Iceland’s environment works. At first glance, the terrain looked very rocky and barren, which matched what I expected before arriving. However, as Olaf pointed out areas of moss and vegetation, it became clear that life still exists and is able to adapt to the environment here. This helped challenge my first assumption about Iceland.
Another thing that immediately stood out to me was the landscape itself. The volcanic rock, moss-covered ground, and open spaces made the scenery feel very different from anywhere I have been before. Even though parts of the land looked harsh, it also felt very natural and untouched. Seeing these landscapes in person made me realize how closely Iceland’s infrastructure and daily life must be intertwined with the environment.
After arriving in Reykjavík, we had time to explore and start getting familiar with the city. It was interesting seeing how modern buildings, roads, and everyday life exist alongside such dramatic natural surroundings. The first day helped set the tone for the rest of the trip and made me excited to learn more about how Iceland balances nature, technology, and daily life.
Swanson School of Engineering 