The Iceland Sustainable Business Study Abroad captured my interest from the very first moment. I couldn?t believe Mays Business School was providing me the opportunity to venture into this alien landscape and explore its geology, history, and culture. My fascination with Iceland stemmed from my interest in the Viking sagas, and as I surveyed images of the scenic waterfalls and cragged lava fields, I knew I had to take this chance to step into the past. What I didn?t realize at first is that I would also be stepping into the future. Due to its incredible geothermal resources, Iceland has been able to successfully implement sustainable energy technologies in a way few other countries can hope to match. By studying global sustainable management here of all places, I will be able to gain an entirely new perspective on what clean business could look like.
After stepping off the plane and onto the volcanic rock, I formed a host of initial impressions about this unparalleled country. First, the sheer cold knocked my breath away. Though I was prepared for the temperature, I was not prepared for the blasting winds that never seemed to stop. Packing layers was definitely a good idea! Furthermore, I was struck by how laid back the Icelandic people are. They hardly don formal clothes – even in professional settings – and often take days to respond to work-related communications. Finally, as I traversed Reykjavik, the clash between human art and natural harshness became ever more apparent. The buildings were multicolored and often adorned with beautiful murals. By contrast, the weather was cold and rainy, with Iceland?s rough volcanic cliffs always in view. It seems that Icelanders have stalwartly rebelled against the ruggedness of their surroundings with their own creative expression. Understanding how determined one must be to survive here at all, this insight came as little surprise.
There are a few key discrepancies between the cultures of Iceland and the United States, each of which relates to the idea of advancing sustainability. As mentioned before, business in Iceland tends to be executed in a far more casual manner. While this could mean certain assignments aren?t completed as fast, it also results in less pressure being placed on novice employees, allowing them to grow into their roles instead of burning out. Iceland also emphasizes outdoor exercise to a far greater extent. Instead of laboring in gyms, Icelanders prefer to hike on the slopes or ride horses across flat terrain. This translates to a more personal relationship with their natural surroundings, motivating them to go the extra mile for the sake of conservation. Lastly, the overarching cultural doctrine in Iceland is one of trust. Many individuals leave their front doors and cars unlocked. Some parents even leave baby strollers unoccupied while shopping. People in Iceland aren?t gullible – they simply expect each other to behave in a moral, considerate way. This philosophy extends to sustainability. For Iceland, protecting the environment and valuing workers aren?t added bonuses to the profit motive: they?re built into the framework of what a business should be.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Iceland thus far and look forward to continuing my education in this magical landscape. Hopefully, I can return from this excursion ready to apply what I have learned toward a positive aim.
