Spring Break in Icelend With the Brooklyn College Geology Society

Ten members of the Brooklyn College Geology Society traveled to Iceland over spring break 2018. Chaperoned by EESC Lecturer Matthew Garb, they studied the unique geology of the island during a six-day adventure.

"The act of exploration and hands-on, experiential learning is especially important when attempting to understand the earth itself; how it functions, how it is formed, how it behaves," states Lisa Bloodgood, Geology Society member and trip participant.

Glaciers in Iceland.

Hiking in Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.

Hiking in Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.

Students visited Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park to observe the fissure zone situated on the boundaries of the rifting North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—the only place in the world where this process is exposed. They observed Iceland's geothermal activity, both by visiting hot springs and geysers, and spent time at some of the many waterfalls on the island—a result of the country's volcanic origins. Students were also able to witness a Short System first hand; the close proximity of the iconic volcanoes to the columnar-jointed black-sand beaches made it an ideal study area for braided streams and other sedimentary processes. "Examining the glaciers was a highlight for many of the students," says student Chris Forrester. "Having seen the evidence of glacial activity during field trips to New York's Central Park, it was amazing to see—and hear—the process actually happening."

"Iceland is a land built and carved by immense natural forces," says Alison Rowe, Geology Society president. "As a student who studies the earth, I find it both humbling and inspiring to be able to make a trip like this. It adds a perspective that you just can't get in the classroom."

"It took a lot of coordination," she adds. We were really lucky to work with International Field Studies, a U.S.-based nonprofit that works with educators to put together field study programs. We couldn't have had this experience if it weren't for them."

Funding for the trip came from student contributions as well as grants from the Student Activities budget and the Academic Club Association.