Spend Spring Break Serving in Iceland
This March, Lynch School of Education and Human Development is partnering with Compass to offer you an unforgettable journey to Iceland.
Compass is more than just a service trip—it’s an opportunity to explore, serve, and contribute to creating a more just and sustainable world. This cross-cultural service-learning trip is designed to help you examine yourself and the world, grow your talents, skills, and imagination, and act for justice in community with others. Through deep connections and unique adventures, you’ll cultivate a sense of belonging that extends beyond spring break.
COMPASSION
With its welcoming spirit, Iceland offers support and care to those navigating uncertain times. Many within its borders come from across the globe, seeking sanctuary, hope, and new beginnings. We extend compassion to both Icelanders and a diverse population of immigrants and refugees, all seeking a fresh start in this unique and hospitable land.
JUSTICE
Compass partners with the Salvation Army at three locations throughout Iceland. Together, we meet the physical and emotional needs of everyone who comes through their doors — whether Icelandic citizens or those from afar. Through this partnership, we are committed to bringing justice, accompaniment and service to those seeking a fresh start.
HOPE
Amid Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, we embody hope through self-giving accompaniment and service. Our work not only uplifts those we serve but also renews our own spirits. In Iceland, we strive to live with purpose, learning as much as we give, and growing through the relationships we build.
What do we actually do when we’re in Iceland?
Our approach to international accompaniment and service is that we do whatever is needed of us. The frontlines of compassion services present ever-changing needs. Whether it's sorting clothing donations, running a children’s camp, serving meals, or providing free workshops in arts and sports — Compass is in constant communication with our Icelandic counterparts. We prepare each group for the specific work that's needed when we arrive.
Our work in Iceland isn't just about doing; it's about being. We practice intentional presence and living our personal values during all portions of the trip. Many meaningful moments will come from relationships rather than tasks.
Compass empowers individuals to pursue purpose through community, exploration, and service. During your time in Iceland, you and your fellow Lynch School students will acquire invaluable skills for nurturing a sense of purpose back on campus and in all areas of life.
Here’s a little more of what students experienced on last year’s trips:
“ I learned how much I need reflection in my life and how I am happier when I give thoughts of grief, anxiety, and stress a space— to actually feel instead of escaping. I’ve healed so much in such a short time and I now have some tools to continue that growth on my own.”
“This experience was a long, deep breath for me. It’s easy for me to get caught up in my own thoughts and worries, and move through life tense and stressed, like I’m holding my breath. On this trip though, I was able to breathe easily. I was able to really self-reflect and see how far I have come and am still going on my own personal and faith journey. ”
“On Compass, I felt like I could truly bring my entire self. It reminded me that there is something so much bigger bringing us all together. I’ve never connected with a group so quickly and deeply in such a short amount of time. I don’t feel the same as I did at the beginning of the trip; my spirit feels renewed by laughter, service, and love.”
Follow @compasspath on Instagram to hear from more students about their Compass trip!
SCHEDULE
Travel dates are set but schedule of events while in-country is tentative and exact events are subject to change. Further details will be provided in pre-trip trainings.
Every day on the program will begin with personal quiet time. Each evening will conclude with small group debriefing, known on Compass as ‘Table Talk’ as well as journal content and programming provided by Compass.
Please note: Iceland is an incredible country and a beautiful tourist destination, but we remind all of our participants that our primary intention is service and learning. We have ensured that this trip includes set times for sightseeing and souvenirs, but it is important for participants to enter the trip with the expectation of respecting the parameters we have in regard to tourism and shopping so as to not detract from the primary aim of our time in Iceland.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Students fundraise for their Compass experiences. The fundraising goal for the Compass 2025 Lynch School of Education and Human Development experience is $2,550.
This covers food and lodging, bus tickets, airfare to and from Iceland, and all expedition and program expenses in country. Not included is transportation to and from Boston Logan airport. Students are also required to cover any travel or airport meals but our itinerary includes no layovers. We suggest you bring spending money in case you’d like to buy souvenirs of any kind. But it is possible to get in and out of Iceland without purchasing any of these (we’ve managed it ourselves).
In order to secure your spot on the trip, a non-refundable $250 deposit is due within seven days of your acceptance. This counts toward the $2,550 total amount.
We prioritize financial accessibility to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in our trips. If finances are a concern, we encourage you to apply and then reach out to us at info@compasspath.org to discuss available financial options.