We were back in Reykjavik for Day 7, and we began with a visit to Reykjavik University. We learned about programs related to sustainable energy within the university’s engineering school, which accepts students from many backgrounds to pursue a degree in this discipline. A large majority of RU students are international, and I learned that students with bachelor’s degrees in environmental science come to RU to earn an MSc that will prepare them for a career in sustainable energy. I can definitely see how my undergraduate experience would benefit me in a field like geothermal energy, even though I’m new to the engineering side of things.
After our university visit, we were set free to explore downtown Reykjavik. It’s a lovely area. The impact of tourism on this city is absolutely everywhere, and I was quite surprised by this at first. At any point along the main street, you’re within ten steps of at least three different souvenir shops, a lot of which all sell the same things. Regardless, I stocked up on many Icelandic goodies to take back home. Hopefully, I can find some room in my suitcase. We ended the day with a farewell dinner at the Grand Brasserie, where we had some delicious arctic char. It was so nice to end the week by enjoying a wonderful meal with the group and giving thanks to our incredible guide, Ólöf. This was surely a trip that I will never forget.
Swanson School of Engineering 