Environmental Stewardship, Global Learning, and Discovery in Iceland
Join Compass Path and Stranmillis University College for a week in Iceland, where hands-on environmental stewardship, breathtaking landscapes, and international collaboration invite you to explore sustainability, discover new perspectives, and connect classroom learning with the world around you.
Trip Snapshot
DATES
June 5-12, 2027
COST
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Lodging, meals, in-country transportation, programming, travel insurance, and probably some Icelandic chocolate. Stranmillis will coordinate international flights separately.
LOCATION
Reykjavík & Krýsuvík, Iceland (final location based on partner needs)
Overview
Some of the most valuable learning happens beyond the classroom.
This June, you'll join Compass Path and fellow Stranmillis students for a week exploring environmental sustainability in one of the world's most extraordinary landscapes. Through hands-on projects such as habitat restoration, forestry, and coastal cleanups, you'll discover how communities work together to protect the natural environments they share.
Alongside international volunteers, you'll explore environmental education, outdoor learning, and the challenges of climate change while developing a deeper appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. Whether you're studying education or another discipline, this experience offers an opportunity to connect global issues with your own interests and future work.
But the week isn't only about the projects you'll complete. You'll explore Iceland's waterfalls, geothermal landscapes, and remarkable natural beauty while building friendships through shared meals, cultural exchange, and daily reflection.
You'll return home with more than unforgettable memories. You'll bring fresh perspectives on sustainability, intercultural understanding, and the role each of us can play in caring for our communities and the wider world.
What You’ll Do
Take part in environmental stewardship projects, potentially including coastal cleanups, forestry, and habitat restoration alongside local conservation partners.
Collaborate with international volunteers, exchanging perspectives on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and community life.
Explore how Iceland's landscapes and approaches to environmental education can inspire outdoor learning and sustainability initiatives back home.
Experience Iceland's extraordinary waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and dramatic coastlines.
Build friendships with fellow Stranmillis students and international volunteers through shared service, adventure, conversation, and everyday life.
Practice daily rhythms of Compass Time and Table Talk, creating space to reflect on your experiences, exchange ideas, and connect your learning to your future.
From the Archives
How to Join
This experience is open to students from across Stranmillis University College, regardless of their course of study.
Express your interest through Stranmillis. Contact the college's international opportunities team and complete the relevant application process by November 10, 2026.
Await confirmation from Stranmillis. The college will review student interest, confirm available places, and provide details about funding and individual student contributions.
Complete your Compass registration. Once selected, you'll complete participant agreements and required travel and medical forms.
Get ready for Iceland! Join pre-trip meetings with Compass staff, meet your fellow participants, and prepare for the projects, cultural experiences, and adventures ahead.
You should only fill out the Compass registration form once selected by your Stranmillis team leaders.
Sample Schedule
Note
Every Compass trip is different! The schedule below is just an example—each experience varies depending on your group, location, and the needs of our partners. The daily rhythm often shifts based on weather, service projects, and cultural opportunities. Flexibility is key!
You'll receive more specific trip details during your interview and in pre-trip meetings with your group.
Schedule
Day 1 — Saturday, June 5
Depart for Iceland and begin your journey with fellow Stranmillis students.
Day 2 — Sunday, June 6
Arrive in Reykjavík, travel to your accommodations, meet your Compass instructors, and begin exploring Iceland's remarkable landscapes and culture.
Day 3 — Monday, June 7
Begin hands-on environmental stewardship projects alongside local partners and international volunteers. Explore Iceland's approach to sustainability and environmental protection.
Day 4 — Tuesday, June 8
Continue working on environmental projects, potentially including coastal conservation, forestry, or habitat restoration. Learn how outdoor education can connect environmental responsibility with community engagement.
Day 5 — Wednesday, June 9
Excursion day! Discover Iceland's waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and dramatic coastline while exploring the relationship between Iceland's environment and its people.
Day 6 — Thursday, June 10
Return to your environmental projects, deepen friendships with international volunteers, and reflect on what you've learned about sustainability, diversity, and global citizenship.
Day 7 — Friday, June 11
Celebrate everything accomplished together, explore more of Iceland, and participate in a closing reflection connecting your experiences to your studies and future work.
Day 8 — Saturday, June 12
Return home with new friendships, unforgettable memories, and fresh ideas for bringing environmental stewardship and global perspectives into your own community.
Daily routine
Breakfast
Start your day with your group.
Compass Time
Guided reflection, journaling, and conversation to help you consider what you're learning and experiencing.
Service & Learning
Hands-on environmental projects, outdoor learning, and cultural exchange with local partners and international volunteers.
Group Dinner
Shared meals, sometimes cooked together, sometimes eaten at our service sites, sometimes enjoyed at local restaurants.
Table Talk
Guided conversations about sustainability, community, cultural perspectives, and your experiences throughout the day.
Evening Activities & Free Time
Games, creative expression, quiet reflection, exploring the local area, or group outings.
