Iceland: Kai Farley
Program: UW Field Study in Iceland, Summer
Major: Data Science
Describe your internship, research, or fieldwork and how the experience helped advance your career or studies.
We explored the regrowth of vegetation in Thorsmork, an area which used to be populated by sheep. After their removal the plant life could regrow. It was interesting to learn how fieldwork was done, and I think it will help me in the future.
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
The most memorable experience was exploring Thorsmork; I went on a trail alone and did some off-trail hiking with a few of my roommates. The hike and view were beautiful, but also memorable was the bonding we were doing.
Don’t go in with too many expectations, be open to trying new things, be prepared for physical activity, appreciate nature and your surroundings.
What challenges or barriers did you face as you prepared to go abroad and/or during your time abroad? How did you work through them?
I was worried about talking to and meeting new classmates, and being together with them for two weeks. I was worrying a lot but then I realized most people are probably worried about this program for many different reasons. I decided that I would try to talk to everyone and be nice as possible, and it turned out that everyone was cool and I realized I was worrying about nothing.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
Don’t go in with too many expectations, be open to trying new things, be prepared for physical activity, and appreciate nature and your surroundings.