Le Moyne College Stories

When someone says “I’m going to Iceland,” the first things that pop into your head are frigid temperatures and glaciers. Or maybe you know nothing about it so you google pictures and see cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. But no matter what, all of a sudden you feel yourself drawn to this place. That feeling is nothing compared to when you are standing in front of a beautiful, powerful glacier breathing in the frigid air, just awed by its magnificence. That feeling is only equal to the one you feel when you are standing on the edge of a giant lake and you see snow capped mountains rising up into the sky and icebergs peaking out of the glassy water. Those feelings are unreal. You have to pinch yourself and ask, “Is this really happening?”

I was able to experience all of those things and more; I was part of a group of students and faculty that traveled to Iceland to do research. As a junior at the time, I wanted to broaden my scientific research and not just stick to the field that I was most interested in. The results were many more times rewarding than I could have ever thought they would be.We were able to take specimens and samples of vegetation, water and rock. It’s one thing to be in a lab and have it all laid out for you; but the experience of getting to design your own research and see your ideas unfold and eventually prove or disprove your own research is beyond satisfying. You see your research, papers and field work all come together into something that is truly your own and the feeling is incredible.

While the place was incredible and the science was amazing, the trip would have been nothing without the people that went. Our fearless leader Dr. Tanner kept us working while giving us life lessons and always reminding us that all work and no play is pointless. We all spent two weeks bonding as friends, scientists and as fellow adventurers. The place, science and most importantly the people came together to make the trip of a lifetime and unforgettable memories.

Written by: Mariana Zallo, '17, Biology major