Friday, August 15, 2008

Follow the last few days of Students On Ice in the Arctic!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Cori Eide, Student

What a day in the Arctic. No yoga for me today. I decided to sleep in and rest up for our last hike and most especially for the Arctic swim.

I was actually excited for breakfast today because yesterday I woke up feeling seasick and only got worse throughout the day. After today’s breakfast everyone geared up for the next expedition hike and landing with the zodiacs. It was a fun ride for most because we actually had to hold on. I don’t think anyone managed to keep dry, as it was very windy.

On shore we had free time to reflect or to explore. Others and I sat by the waterfall and realized that we have 4 days left, but only 3 of those days on the ship. As time went by the sun shone more and layers of clothing were coming off. It was a bit odd being in the Arctic in shirts and shorts, especially coming from Alaska.

In the past couple days we have formed “Pod” groups but to me they are really like “Family” groups: people you can talk and share opinions or problems with. Today in our family group we talked about ideas and things we can do to give back to our communities, because some of us received a scholarship for this expedition. We also want to promote knowledge of global climate changes and its effects.

I gave a lot of thought of how I can do my part. In conclusion, I want to start the recycle center back up back in Nome. I would like to continue in the Future Teachers of Alaska club to teach a couple of classes about Global Warming. Also, I would like to give a presentation and workshop to the state of Alaska in October during the state-wide conference known as AFN. But most of all I have personal goals that I hope will catch on with the people around me. Just three days left on board of the Lyubov Orlova and I hope the good weather stays around.

By Alexandra Polasko, Student

Life is not measured by the amount of breaths you take, but rather the moments that take your breath away, and today my breath was taken away more than just once. Today we raced the wind in our zodiacs as we made our way over to Canso Channel to do a team building activity, hike, and go for our Arctic swim! When we got to the island and stuck on our hiking boots we separated into our pod groups which are small groups of about 10 people with a staff member that helps us get to know each other and talk about climate issues. We discussed what we can, and are, doing to help slow global warming. About an hour later we went on a hike up the mountain and around the waterfall. At the top, the wind was blowing fiercely as I sat on the ledge of a huge rock and looked out into the peaceful horizon. On the rock, for a moment, the world stood still; my heart forgot how to beat, my lungs were stuck in time, and my eyes were lost in the sky; I was at a loss for words and breath.

The next time my breath was taken away, it was definitely not as numinous, but just as memorable. We headed over to a sandy part of the island, and went into the 40ْF water for our Arctic swim! Nora, Oopick, Dakota, and I all flopped in, drenching ourselves from head to toe. After I came out every part of my body was tingling and my breath was, for the second time today, taken away. However, this was a different kind of feeling; I felt exhilarated and fresh, and after a warm cup of tea, some throat lozenges, and oil painting with Linda, we headed to dinner, and then to bed. As Edward R. Murrow would say, “Good night and good luck [to tomorrow and the rest of the S.O.I adventures].”

By Leah Pengelly, Student

Today was yet another incredible day in the Arctic. We have to come up with new words to describe how amazing our trip is. Ann Hanson gave us a word in Inuktitut for something that is more than breathtaking; wakalunga. Today was definitely wakalunga! We landed on a beach where we hiked up to a lake. We basked in the warm sunlight, ate blueberries and took many group photos. After going for a short hike around the lake we got back in the zodiacs and prepared for our Arctic Swim. We stripped down quickly and ran into the water. We were in a protected bay so the water wasn’t absolutely freezing but still fairly cold. When we got back and were warmed up we went to our workshops and had some amazing discussions about the environment. We have made “pod” groups to discuss things we can change in our lives, our community and the world. I am really excited to get back to my community and share the knowledge I have gained these last two weeks


By Mabel Lee, Student

Today was one of the best days ever! I stumbled out of bed and enjoyed another beautiful day. Starting the day off, we had another great breakfast. Today we went on one of our last hikes of the expedition. As I hiked I took in the gorgeous landscape all around me. The hike was really refreshing. I felt as if I was a part of nature. The mountains, the water, the sky-- it was all so amazing and so fascinating. Later, we went on our first ever Arctic swim of the expedition. I quickly dove into the water and when I came out, I was freezing cold. It was a first time experience for me and it was awesome.


By Rohit Mehta, Student

Our Climate Future

I am going to talk about my high, low, wow, and now moments. This is a concept we used in our breakout groups that formed two days back, where we had small discussions about ideas we could focus on after our expedition.

My high today has definitely been swimming in the arctic waters. If it wasn’t for the Mountains in the background, I could have been convinced that we were on a beach along the Atlantic. After we stepped off the zodiac, we held each other and ran into the water at full force. As I dove into the water, screamed, and ran back; I realized that the water wasn’t as cold as I had imagined. What’s more, the sun was unusually warm and quickly brought our bodies to room temperature. Laughing and screaming with the rest of the group, I dried off in the cool breeze and headed back to the ship for lunch.

My low today was seeing a few of our brothers and sisters recovering from being sick lately. We have had a few coughs and colds on board, and plenty of sea sickness yesterday – myself included! As I write this journal, there are few coughs and ill expedition members on board, but the majority of us are doing great.

My wow moment was when Rachel Eisner had a brilliant idea before lunch. It was announced that we are all supposed to bring our plates to the front of the lunch room after we ate. When I asked Rachel what she was up to, she said she had an idea, but wouldn’t say any more. I quickly realized that all of our food waste was being collected, and I understood that she was doing a waste audit. What blew me away was later in the day, when she sent the staff out during our nightly recap and they each came back holding a plate full of our food waste. She talked about how we must set a great example by not wasting, and why it’s so important for us to only.



Image credits (from top): 1) Student picking blueberries.; 2) Student playing violin at sunset on the deck.; 3) Group picture Students On Ice 2008.

Another day in the Arctic with Students On Ice

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Alexandra Polasko, Student

Today I woke up to a peculiar feeling on the ship, it felt like my stomach was being turned upside down, and as I found out at yoga, it was. This morning was the first time the Lyubov Orlova experienced rough seas. Luckily for me, I don’t get sea sick, so it made the experience all the more fun; Amber went full force through yoga and adapted the moves to help us stay balanced. Then, we headed up to the top deck to get some fresh air that was going at an incredible force of 45 knots! It was exhilarating standing on the top of the deck having the wind blow so hard on your face that tears automatically trickle down. My love for the ship and its unique opportunities grows more and more every day. Every aspect of mother-nature takes on a different feel when you’re on a ship; the ship gave me a new perspective on the wind today. It was numinous.

After breakfast, we headed to our workshops. Today was one of the best workshops/ lectures I have ever been to in my entire life. Amber gave a slide show lecture on climate change, the causes, the effects, and what we have already done and can do to help slow global warming. Then we had a quick lunch, and got ready to go for a shore landing at Home Bay. The bay was sublime; it had every kind of bone of every kind of animal I could possibly think of in the Arctic. There was everything from polar bear skulls, and dog teeth, to an old whaling shack from the 1800’s. The adventure was not only insightful, but interesting. I felt like a detective trying to find out what bone went to which animal, and what chain went to which machine. Then finally, we came back, had a wonderful dinner, where Ophelia and I shared ideas about our new project. To sum it all up; today was another day in paradise.


By Graham May, Student

This morning I awoke to the feeling of gentle rocking, but as soon as I was out of bed I realized how definitely un-gentle it was. After over a week of incredibly good weather, we had finally hit some rough seas. This caused some havoc on board: yoga was an interesting experience as we swayed back and forth, and several expedition members spent the morning an interesting shade of green. As unpleasant as this was, I saw it as an important part of our expedition.

The main event of the day was a zodiac landing in Kivitoo, in Home Bay. We arrived in an abandoned whaling station with the ruins of an ancient Inuit community. The area was an archeologist’s dream. The ground was littered with old cans, oil drums, polar bear skulls, and one remaining structure: a eighteenth century shack. It was the kind of place where one could spend days, looking at the artefacts, speculating on what they were, sketching them, and learning about them. There was so much to soak up there, and it was a sublime test of will power to walk through the site without stopping every two steps to look at some fascinating tidbit of history. I then joined the Oceanography group, and netted the arctic sea for zooplankton! The skills we are learning on this journey are truly unique.

As we near the end of our journey I am always finding myself wishing for more time than I have. There is so much to see up here, and so much to learn from the people we are here with. It is hard to believe how quickly the end is coming, and we need to take advantage of every second we have left.


By Rohit Mehta, Student

Our Climate Future

I have been thinking a lot about why I have come on this expedition. Over meals and during our free time, we commonly ask each other what brings us here. For me, the need to take action and create meaningful change is my main reason.

These words are overused very often, to “take action” and create “meaningful change.” I have witnessed workshops that wowed participants, and protests that seemed to change the world. For me, activities such as these create meaningful change. But I am looking for something greater.

I have come to the arctic to be inspired by its beauty, and this place is a big deal. For me, it’s about more than creating a presentation or a workshop or writing an article. I want to create radical change that will have impacts, and I recognize that today’s radical times call for radical measures.

I had a discussion during today’s hike about how so many of us environmentalists are motivated, yet lack the resources or capacity to mobilize our peers. I have been lucky to be a part of the Canadian Youth Climate Coalition, where I have experienced the meaning of a climate change movement. Throughout all of my experiences though, I have always wondered how I can make a more meaningful impact.

As I search for ways to create radical change, or combine ideas to create a new radical idea, I wonder how we can mobilize today’s youth, to create tomorrow’s climate future.


By Sonora Williams, Student

Well, we finally had the rough seas everyone asked for. I experienced the whole shebang first hand. When the water calmed down, stomach became untied. Next we had workshops and I continued with my printmaking. Today I took on the ominous igloo with thirty holes to cut out. After the workshops everyone was exhausted from seasickness medication. I was tuckered out from trying to stand upright. When lunch rolled around I remembered how much a good meal can make you feel, and how much I love the Russian cooking staff. After the lunch we made a landing on Kivitoo. I made a lovely sketch of a view out through a window. Later I broke a few language barriers while talking to Elsa. With the help of another student I explained the word “skunk”. Life doesn’t get any better than this.


By Meredith Burgess, Student

Wow, the last few days have been amazing! I’ve never been more awed in my life. When I looked at one of the polar bears through the binoculars and watched how graceful and majestic its muscles moved, and the way it looked at us, I knew right then that it was the King of the Arctic.

Then there were the whales in Isabella Bay. Just listening to them breathe was enough to take my breath away. I was completely frozen; it was like time stood still. I couldn’t even bring myself to take a decent picture. All of my reactions were delayed, I was so awestruck.

I feel like this trip has changed me so much. I’ve grown so close to these people over the last ten days. It’s like we have known each other our whole lives. Our discussions that are meant to be short and sweet typically end up lasting two or three hours. Some of my friends are new, and some are old. We all have so much in common and so much to talk about. I can honestly say that I’ve never been this happy in my entire life

By Meagan McLay, Student

What a day! This morning we woke to a very swaying ship and it was the best. It was about time we had some rough water! I did an interview over the phone with CBC Labrador just before lunch. I was really nervous, but after I prepped with William George I felt a lot more confident. I got to see the ship’s bridge. It was really something to see the command post of the boat. After lunch, we made a landing at Kivitoo and did some workshops. It was a really fun afternoon. I was sitting on the grass with Jessica and I noticed that one of the sailors that stayed on the beach to help with the zodiacs was scurrying about, chasing a lemming that was running around. Then Phil, Stanley and Charlie went and joined him. I thought no matter what language they speak, all guys are the same. It was really funny watching them and I had a fantastic time today.



Image credits (from top): 1) Hiking along the beach.; 2) Examining terrapods.; 3) Arctic Cotton.; 4) Polar Bear swimming.

Follow Students On Ice’s journey in the Arctic on Video! Part 1 -Departure

Students On Ice live from the Arctic

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Cori Eide, Student

Each day I’ve lost a little sleep compared to when I am at home. For the past two days we have had breakfast a half hour later than usual and I do feel a difference. Today is just a great day and I just got done with lunch!

During breakfast I introduced peanut butter to a French guy. His first thought was, “Okay, but Nutella is much betta.” Then I had him try my toast which was peanut butter with honey as well. He thought it was “Much betta but Nutella is still good.” We also ate lunch together as well and got into the conversation of ribs and bbq sauce. “How do you eat ribs with a knife?” We told him, “You don’t, use your hands!”

One thing that I really admire about this program, SOI, is that they bring people from all over the world together and basically become family. It makes events and activities more interesting and fun than if it was just people from one country.

Today, we all went on a hike in Sam Ford Fjord. It was just beautiful and standing there, if someone had asked me to describe the scenery, I would definitely have been speechless. Tall mountains, glacier streams and waterfalls, and the fresh air which can all be found in Alaska, but just something about it was more special. Maybe it was the fact that I have found a place so similar to home elsewhere, or it could have been, well I just don’t know what it could have been. My favorite part was the smell of walking in the tundra with glacier water which many other people loved as well. Knowing that others had liked it as well had me thankful for Alaskan lands for its fresh air.

Now we are sailing back south and it’s awesome that we have gone further north than expected! We got to stop in Isabella Bay, which most would call the home of bowhead whales. There had to be 100 or so whales. We took our Zodiacs for a closer look, so close we could hear them breathing through their blow holes. Also by sailing further north we had two polar bear sightings and just the experience of the true Arctic. Right now I am looking forward to our Polar Swim, which is a jump into the Arctic Ocean!

By Elizabeth Steves, Student
Every day on this trip I am reminded how small I am as human being. Today was a hike in a glacial valley, with some of the tallest rock faces I have ever seen. As I was walking, I kept thinking about the possibility of a rock slide, but we all came back alive. One aspect of the tundra that I never anticipated was how lush the fauna the can get! At certain points along this trek I would catch myself sinking half a foot into moss, or some other plant. Along the hike there were also areas where huge rockslides had occurred. It was difficult to climb across so many of these, as every few steps whatever was beneath me would give out. We came back to a barbeque lunch on the stern and it was quite possibly the most scenic lunch I have ever had.

Today I have been thinking about my home and the fact that soon I will have to return. It’s disheartening to think that I won’t be able to wake up every morning and see some new beautiful landscape outside my window. However, it seems like a new chapter will be opening for me when I return and I look forward to that everyday.

By Alexandra Polasko, Student
You never find out how far you can excel until you push yourself, and today I pushed myself not only physically, but mentally. As we made our way up into the Arctic, we sailed into Sam Ford Fjord. Since it was such a calm and beautiful morning, Geoff decided to let us hike around the bay after he and Johnny checked for bears. When the coast was clear we started our four hour hike. At first, Brenna, Amanda, and I started up the hill with ease, stepping strategically on dry rocks to avoid getting wet or hurting the sorrel. After a quick stop for a drink, and a picture of the amazing scenery, we headed up some pale steep rocks thinking we were going the right way to get to the glacier. This was not so. What we had actually done was climb up to the most difficult, steep, and unpredictable part of the mountain. During our desperate attempt to successfully cling to every sturdy rock we could find, jump across a raging river, and find any sign of human life, we began to talk about what we were feeling and thinking. As I thought I managed to pant out a couple of sentences. I was feeling nervous and free. I was nervous because I had never been in such an unpredictable situation that had every element of danger and excitement packed into one experience. I was feeling free because I was in charge of where I was going to go, what I was going to do, and where my next step was going to lead me. The mountain showed me that we are not in control of what our planet does, but we are merely crew members scrambling to achieve a fraction of the accomplishments that mother-nature does every day.




By Graham May, Student

Today, for the first time so far on the expedition, I had some time to allow the idea of where I am to sink in. Most of the time while you are having such incredible experiences, you never want to stay in one spot. You want to run around and see everything that there is to be seen and do everything you can do. Today I realized the importance of taking a few moments of quiet reflection, just so you can think about what you are doing, and try to remember it for later.

Today, we took a hike up a valley to a glacier in Sam Ford Fjord. It was probably the most beautiful hike I have ever taken! The barren mountains towered above me on either side, but in the valley there was considerable greenery and a river of glacial run-off water. We made it to the glacier and as I stood on it, looking down the valley towards the sea, I was lost for words. The beauty and perfection of the scene was incomparable to anything I have experienced so far, in my quite short life.

We reached the farthest north point of our expedition, roughly 71° north, today. From this point onwards we will be heading southwards, back towards the world that we are more used to. I see it as a highly symbolic point in our journey, the beginning of the end and a time for reflections and farewells.



Image credits (from top): 1) BBQ on the deck.; 2) Leaving Sam Ford Fjord.; 3) Boots on the beach.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Today in the Arctic with Students On Ice: Foggy fjords and a mysterious archeological site!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Cori Eide, Student

Today was a great day! It started with yoga, then breakfast, and a lecture. Today we explored “whale country.” We learned that the Norwegians were actually the leaders when it came to hunting whales. Hearing that made me feel even more proud of my heritage! My father is full Norwegian and my mother is full Alaska Native. Here we are visiting native lands and learning their culture (which is very similar to Alaska’s). We also learn other history as well. Both happen to be where my parents originate.

Today we also had reflection/quiet time, but it required being outside. It actually wasn’t all that quiet, but I am sure everyone enjoyed it to some extent. We all formed a circle according to birth date and most participated in building a human pyramid.

During lunch we all sat with the people who share our birth month, to mingle with people we hadn’t spent much time with, yet. By the time lunch was over, I ate three biscotti because we had talked for so long. I couldn’t complain!

Later in the day, our expedition leader found an island through the fog. It was quite mysterious. All SOI went ashore and found many different types of bones, including human. Each artifact was so precious that we had to watch every step we took and most certainly not pick up anything! Ann Hanson, Commissioner of Nunavut, told us many of the historic events that could have taken place, with excellent evidence to back it up. There were many people who found this island to be a spiritual place or have a soothing connection. For me, it got me thinking of my culture and how it is really similar. I like to observe the reactions of other people on the ship to our surroundings because I have already seen a lot of these sceneries and animals. I just love it! One girl saw snow for the first time and it just made me smile.

Last night I gave a talk about Alaska and what a normal day is for me, along with some adventurous Alaskan stories. It was just so normal for me that I didn’t know people would actually enjoy listening to me. Can you believe there is a person in my town that has a reindeer for a pet? Her name is Velvet.

Today has been a great day and I am starting to believe that days with no plans turn out to be one of the best and most unforgettable moments. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow will bring!



By Yibin Zhang, Student

No blue-footed boobies yet, but we have seen an adorable young harp seal, a sunset that could have been digitally created, and a spectacular view from the tops of the mountains along Sunneshine Fjord that was only visible after hours of uphill hiking! All of these sights are now irrevocably etched into my memory! I recall being rather frustrated with my camera yesterday; it captured only mediocre depictions of the mountain scene and lacked any true depth or majesty. It doesn’t take long to realize that the wonder of most of these sights elude even skilled photographers, although Farzana or Lee could prove me wrong!

A few days ago, Johnny mentioned how strange it was for him to be five feet away from a seal and not be able to hunt it. The entire experience was new and awesome for him. In a similar way, I feel as though I, too, am able to view things differently after my experiences over the past days. Hearing Johnny’s stories about Inuit hunting in the Arctic made me feel awe, rather than sadness for the animals. I’ve come to recognize a difference between hunting as a cultural activity – during which every inch of the animal is utilized – and hunting for an industry that takes only the pelts to make extravagant furs in the name of fashion.

Yesterday, we visited the town of Qikiqtarjuak. It seemed like a cut-out from a Mexican village, to those who’ve experienced it, and was the home of about five hundred people—less than half of my school’s population. While language could have been a barrier, that the people embraced us with open arms, which really improved our stay. They were as enthusiastic as us and it was quite exciting to practice my rudimentary Inuktitut with them! Cultural differences were brushed aside as the younger children playfully tailed us until we played with them and by the afternoon it was as if they were our own little brothers and sisters! Truly, we only brushed the tip of the vast complexity of their lifestyles, but someday I hope to go back and see how Naimie and the others have changed. I cannot say I endorse every aspect of the community’s lifestyle. In a decade or so, I hope they do not follow others’ examples in littering all over the dusty town, or take up smoking, a common unhealthful habit there. The future looks bright: Bill Lishman is working on the New Whale Bone Concept, a project which aims to utilize scrap metal in improving the aesthetic appeal of the landscape as well as to cultivate new artistic growth and to raise profits for improving the lives of the residents overall. We cast our own carbon footprints into the azure skies during this trip, but hopefully not in vain.


By Leah Pengelly, Student

Today, we went up a beautiful Fjord called Iterbilung. The mountains that rose straight up from the sea were literally breathtaking! The colours were absolutely incredible, from red and orange to green and blue. The glaciers on the top of the peaks had waterfalls flowing down to the ocean. As we drifted down the fjord we saw whales, seals, narwhal and many other spectacular creatures. It was a very warm day in the Arctic, since we were protected from the wind, so we played some games on the top deck before lunch.

After lunch, we left the fjord and headed down the coast to Home Bay. We landed on the coast and found an old whaling station. There was so much history on such a little peninsula! Some places were over 1000 years old, whereas some sites were less than 100 years old. The mix of artifacts was really interesting. There was everything from ceramics to hunting traps and bones. We also spotted a couple of seals and possibly a walrus! The fog rolled in once again and gave the archeological site a mysterious, spiritual feel.

After seeing all the old artifacts, I headed down the beach where I saw polar bear and Arctic fox tracks. The size of the polar bear tracks against our hands gave us a sense of how humans are really only a tiny part of the earth, while the artifacts showed us how large of an impact we have on the planet. Those polar bear tracks will fade into the sand, but the metal artifacts will last for many years. Something as simple as a plastic bottle will last longer than anything any other organism leaves on the planet. I hope that this voyage allows me, my community, and the world to think about the impact we have on the planet on a daily basis, and how to limit that impact.


By Graham May, Student

Today I have seen some of the most spectacular scenery I am likely to see. As the morning sun burned through the fog, those of us on deck became increasingly amazed by our surroundings. The towering mountains around Iterbilung Fjord are majestic by themselves, but add glaciers flowing down the valleys like petrified rivers, and crashing waterfalls swollen with pure glacial water? That, my friends, is breathtaking.

As we cruised between these snow-cased mountains, three narwhals revealed themselves to us, almost underneath one of the spectacular waterfalls. The beauty and serenity of the scene was truly humbling.

In the afternoon, we left Iterbilung Fjord and entered a completely different world. The fog rolled in again and we went ashore on a secluded and almost flat strip of land. There were ruins from Inuit camps and graves, from whalers’ camps, and even a dignified Inukshuk in a ring of stones. The intense silence and thick fog gave the effect of a place as old as time, and if you stood perfectly still you could almost hear the explorers of hundreds of years ago.

The amazing contrast between the two scenes – the towering majesty of the mountains and the subtle peacefulness of the peninsula – demonstrates the incredible diversity of the Arctic world and how much we stand to learn from it. Twice today I have felt somehow connected to what surrounded me: first, to nature, and second, to history. I hope that everyone has the opportunity to experience such moments of inclusion, because I think it would make the world a much better place.

Image credits (from top): 1) Students having fun on the deck.; 2) Iterbilung Fjord.; 3)Students singing and playing guitar in Iterbilung fjord 4) Ship entering the fjord.

Next stop for our Students On Ice travellers : Qikiqtarjuak, Nunavut!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Alexandra Polasko, Student

Last night as I lay in my bed I thought of a song called “Dare You to Move.” The song talks about taking risks and having the courage to strive after every opportunity you can get. Today I got that opportunity and dared “to move.” This morning our expedition, and not only picked up two new additional students to our expedition, but we also had the chance to stop in the town, of Qikiqtarjuak in Nunavut, a village of about 500 people. With the barren ground, and lack of pavement, the town does not look much on the outside; however, on the inside, I found love and life.

I was walking down the main road of Qikiqtarjuaq, and a woman standing outside her home asked to me to visit with her. At first, I was not sure, but after thinking about it for a second I decided to take the risk and go over, and it just so happened to turn out that I had just made an amazing opportunity for myself and friends beside me. The woman started out by sharing her lifestyle, culture, and family to us. Then out of no where she invites me into her home to see her family photos, artwork, and treasures they hold dear. It was incredible! There was no text book that could possible explain the home’s true beauty and splendor. Her kindness warmed my heart from the first minute I started talking to her, to the very last minute when we let go after shaking hands again. I came as a stranger and left as a family member. Without her bravery to try something new and take a risk, I would have never had such a moving experience. She “dared to move” and I cannot thank her enough for it. She has showed me that anybody can take risks, and that nobody should stay a stranger. Daring to move, has indeed moved me to dare, dare to take a risk to try new things and chip away at any ice that may be blocking a pathway for my future.



By Lauren Law, Student

Today I had a very humbling experience. We were welcomed into a small community called Qikiqtarjuaq, which is along the east coast of Baffin Island. About 500 people populate this community and they are very friendly. The Inuit children were very captivated with our digital cameras. I made friends with two little girls who repeatedly took my camera and would take random pictures with it. We had a great time playing tag along the beach, but they ran much faster than I could ever run upon sand. I gave them two bracelets that I had originally woven for myself. It was my token of appreciation from me to them for warmly accepting me into their community.

Later during our visit we got to meet a Qikiqtarjuaq elder who explained the effects of climate change on the community. He has noticed the tides are rising higher than normal and receding out farther than usual. The sun used to move lower in the sky but now is moving higher up. Ice that the Inuit rely on for hunting is also melting earlier. The elder stressed his people need us to change the future. I deeply respected this elder for his wisdom and his optimism. As I looked into the elder’s eyes and shook his hand to thank him for sharing his knowledge I couldn’t help but remember what Ann Hanson said about meeting Inuit elders…“Whenever I shake the hands with an elder I feel like I am touching unwritten history”. That will stick with me whenever I come face to face with an elder.


By Cori Eide, Student

This just happens to be my first journal published for SOI. I have kind of been putting it off but I know my father is most likely checking the journals daily and most likely shocked that I haven’t written one yet.

First things first: My name is Cori Eide, I am 17 and from Nome, Alaska. I have seen, swam, and lived in the Arctic before but this has been an amazing journey and we’re only half way through it. Every morning I awake and wonder, “Where are we today?”

Believe it or not, the Arctic is very similar to many parts of Alaska. For example, we took a hike up Sunneshine Fjord and there were many times I thought that I was back at home on another hike because of the types of rocks, the tundra, beach combing in the misty weather, and the constant look out for polar bears.

The best part yet about this expedition through the Canadian Arctic is meeting people who are on board. All the experiences and stories we have shared together really inspire me to do greater things. I didn’t think I would meet people who have been to the North Pole, a person with a film based on his life, an artist with such talent, and especially people who have been to my home town! I did expect to meet peers with the same passion and goals as me. On top of that, we became such close friends in a matter of days I am sure we will be a family at the end!

We’ve seen seals, heard interesting and amazing lectures, met locals from Baffin Island, and had so much fun with one another that out stomachs hurt from laughing! Still, there are other activities and sites to see, but right now there is no set itinerary for the next couple of days, due to ice. So for now we’re heading north; further north than expected!


By Caitlyn MacMaster, Chaperone

The expedition to date has been full of novel and remarkable experiences, from seal pups and fog bows to local people and fresh char! One of the most interesting phenomena – and one that continues to become ever more fascinating – is the amount of daylight. The sun officially dips below the horizon around 21h00 and the brilliant colours of sunset are visible two hours later. Even at midnight there is enough light in the sky to wander the decks without assistance!

The first morning, I woke around 04h00 because of the bright sunlight streaming through the porthole! And as we travel further north – we crossed the Arctic Circle yesterday! – the day continues to lengthen! It was in reflecting upon this wonder that it really sank in to me that I am experiencing a truly rare and wonderful opportunity!

Image credits (from top): 1) Inuit kids from Qikiqtarjuaq.; 2) Qikiqtarjuaq town in Nunavut.; 3) Polar bear with bird.; 4) Whale.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Students On Ice - The Arctic journey continues. In this episode: sea and sky united as one!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their Arctic experience!

By Alexandra Polasko, Student

Previously, I have never kept a journal. I have never been able to express my true feelings in writing. I now realize that writing one’s feelings and thoughts opens up new doorways in the mind to future ideas and future action.

I would like to share a moment that impacted me enormously and will for the rest of my life. Today started out unusually: fairly calm. First we had breakfast, then a lecture on sea ice and Arctic mammals, and then some free time. It was at that moment a new doorway opened. I decided to go up to the seventh deck on the ship to catch a glimpse of a great view and take in some fresh air. While on deck, I started to see a few sea ice sheets floating by one by one – more and more of them as we travel further north. Suddenly the ship stopped, and right before my eyes lay hundreds of pieces of ice. What made it so spectacular was how the grey sky matched the water almost exactly. Where I come from, in Scottsdale, Arizona, the sky tells one story and the land another, never matching each other. I never thought I would see the day that the sky and land told the same story. I never thought the day would come when the horizon did not lie before my eyes clearly.



Once again, my expectations were exceeded; this whirlwind of inspiration came to me, telling me that, “Yes, I can make a difference in this world. Every move I make affects both what I can and cannot see.” I may only be 15 but that doesn’t mean I cannot make a difference. My time to start change happens now. Whether it be on a ship, at a computer, or exploring new places I will do whatever it takes to protect the poles, and to the protect the planet.


By Ophie Snyder, Student

Out on the ocean, in the middle of nowhere there are no traces of human contact. Today, even though it was overcast, you could see the amazing turquoise and sky blues radiating from inside the ice. The ice rises out of the fog, accompanied by mountains breaking the never ending grey of the ocean.

It is this most magical place that makes you decide what kind of student, what kind of person, you want to be. It feels as if we lowly humans are intruding on the solitude of a place that existed thousands of years before we were even a thought and will continue to exist until we are nothing more than dust.

In truth, we have an obligation and a responsibility not to interfere with this place but to respect and revere it. As humans we are proud enough to assume Mother Nature needs our help, but in truth, if we leave her alone, stop emitting and reduce our impact, she can take care of herself. People have lost touch with reality. We exist on earth for less than a moment in the grand scheme of things. In that moment we must respect the world and thank it, not destroy it. It is places like the arctic that make you realize how little time you really have on the third rock from the sun.

The ice is magic. I can’t say it enough and it’s changed the way I myself my role in the world.






Image credits (from top): 1) Floating ice in the sea.; 2) Students' first encounter with a seal.; 3) Fogbow over the zodiac.; 4) Group picture Students On Ice 2008

Friday, August 08, 2008

Students On Ice’s Arctic voyage continues with more breathtaking sceneries, wildlife and adventures!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their experience on this amazing journey through the Arctic!


By Alexandra Polasko, student

We have done so much today that writing this journal entry is taking me some thought! Here with the Students on Ice staff and fellow students, I feel as if have accomplished more in a day than in a regular school week! Life here is FANTASTIC! Our first activity today was taking an unexpected zodiac cruise to Hantsch Island. As I found out later today, the zodiac cruise was actually supposed to be to another island; however, being as flexible as we are, we just went with the flow, and going with the flow turned out to be the best thing that happened to me today. While at Hantsch Island, our zodiac group saw hundreds upon hundreds of magnificent birds: Thick-Billed Murres and Kittiwakes. It was breath-taking. While on the zodiac I closed my eyes and took in the sounds and smells that consisted of young and old birds chirping, the grey waves crashing against the boat, and of course the unforgettable smell of bird poop. I have never felt so calm and peaceful in my life until that moment. As Jeff would say, I am in love with zodiacs.

When I thought the day couldn’t get anymore incredible, Students on Ice exceeded my expectations, and the day continued its amazing course. Erik gave us a lecture on ice and snow that was not only funny and witty, but also informative and interesting. Although the lecture reminded me of school, there was one humongous difference between Erik’s lecture and school; I was passionate and intensely interested in what Erik was saying, and the more he talked the more I felt connected to what he was saying. I loved every minute of it.

In conclusion to this unforgettable day, I realized that the Students on Ice program not only allows us to see glaciers and mountains with our eyes, but also with our minds. With this killer combination, we are prepared to fight any battle, prepared to step into any unknown, prepared for whatever life may throw at us, and that, I believe, is the greatest gift anyone can give. Thank you.




By Graham May, student

Today was our first full day at sea, and we are really getting into the arctic spirit. This morning I was forced awake by the early sun, shining high in the sky at 5 am! I spent the morning iceberg watching as we sailed out of Frobisher Bay. We arrived at Hantsh Island around noon, and launched the Zodiacs for a closer look. The small island of about a square kilometer houses one hundred thousand Thick-billed Murres, an incredible cacophony of avian life. I am told that this is only 3 percent of the species in the wild, but still they occupy every crack and cranny in the steep cliffs. Vying for space with the Murres are innumerable Kittiwakes, small gulls with yellow bills, joining the fight for a place to nest. The island, being well above the tree line, was covered with low scrub and brush, and greenish lichen grew on the crags of the cliff face. I have gone over the biology of the island in such detail mainly for the benefit of my mother, who I know will appreciate it! After circling around Hantsch Island we motored up to a majestic glacier, the top covered with yet more birds. Lastly, and probably most exciting, as we pulled away from the island we sighted the highly symbolic polar bear, poster child of the arctic, walking high up in the cliffs.

The other event of great interest that occurred today was a lecture given by Ann Hanson, the Nunavut commissioner and Order of Canada recipient, with whom we have the immense good luck of sharing our expedition. She gave an intriguing and engaging overview of the Inuit people’s situation, given through her own experience. Apparently this is the first of many, and they will be greatly anticipated.

Spirit on the ship continues at an incredible high, with an infectious spirit of optimism pervading throughout. This is a truly incredible group of people, and I feel truly lucky to be a part of it.

By Leah Pengelly, student

Our first day at sea was amazing. We had a wonderful breakfast and decided to explore an island rarely visited that had thousands of nesting birds. The island holds 5% of all the thick billed murres in the world which is around 125 000 birds. The birds resemble penguins but can fly as well as dive up to 200m. The amount of sound was unbelievable against the quiet of the ocean. There were also a number of gulls nesting on the cliffs whose eggs had recently hatched. After a few of us were pooped on we headed over some large icebergs where more birds were perched. The size of the icebergs was very impressive. On the way back our driver spotted a polar bear up on top of the mountain. It wasn’t very close but you could tell it was a very large bear. After the zodiac cruise we had a lecture on Ice and Snow that was very interesting. We also got our scientific bottle experience ready to put bottles in the ocean to track if the currents are changing because of different weather patterns. Tonight is mostly free time with a recap at the end of the day and a talk about the Inuit people from Ann Hansen. We have yet to encounter rough seas and are hoping our good karma keeps it that way.

Hopefully we see more wildlife and polar bears closer to the shore. Tomorrow we are heading due north and meeting the sea ice in Cumberland Strait. There we might tour around or keep heading north because we can’t go through yet. Hopefully it will be another exciting day!

By Patrick Crawford, student

Today, our first day of true expedition, was unexpected, magnificent and in the true expedition spirit. I feel overwhelmed by what we have encountered. Finding time to process the events that have occurred takes more time than is available. Through group discussions and writing these journals, we can combine our thoughts to react and respond to what we have experienced.

The views were spectacular, the animals observed magnificent, and the growing sense of community development within the entire SOI team is unparalleled. The inclusion of the scientific and social aspects expands our minds beyond their normal horizons. From the four main experiences of the day: workshop on GPS navigation, Ice education, Zodiac tour of the rarely seen Hantsch Island, and an amazing oration by Commissioner Ann Hanson all were varied, educational, one-of-a-kind, and amazing. One of the main challenges is trying to conserve time so that it does not go by so quickly. We must learn to stop and smell the roses, in order for the experiences to be fully appreciated.

By Charlie Nakashuk, student

Hi there! I’m an Inuk and my name is Charlie Nakashuk. I live in Pangnirtung, Nunavut. It’s a community high in the Canadian Arctic. The coolest part of this trip is meeting new people because they are from around all the world.This ship is very cool. When you are inside it feels like a hotel. But when you are on deck it definitely feels like a ship!


Image credits (from top): 1) Team in the zodiac.; 2) The Thick Billed Murres.;3) The team encounters a huge iceberg.; 4) Birds on an iceberg.

Wednesday, August 06, 2008

First day of expedition in the Arctic, the students tell all!

Arctic Expedition 2008

By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share with us their first impression of the Arctic!

August 4th, Recap

Our Arctic adventure begins! After a few great days in Ottawa we woke to sunshine and blue skies. A delayed departure from Carleton University worked to our advantage as we had more time for a briefing, packing, and a short Arctic presentation by David Gray. Quick action by Geoff and the pilot ensured we did not leave behind all the food we needed for the expedition. The Honorable Ann Meekitjuk Hanson, Commissioner of Nunavut, greeted the SOI team at the Nunavut Legislature for a very personal tour of this unique and important building. Icebergs of various sizes, colors and shapes were a special highlight around Frobisher Bay as the tide quickly rose. Following a quick tour of Iqaluit, we took our first Zodiac rides to the Lyubov Orlova. A friendly crew welcomed everyone on board and then we settled quickly into our cabins and life aboard the ship. The lifeboat briefing went well, the crew served a delicious dinner and the ship set sail from Iqaluit for the overnight cruise to the Lower Savage Islands.

By Ophelia Snyder, Student

Woohooo!!! Today was the first leg of our journey north! We made it all the way to Iqaluit! However, as Geoff would say, “Flexibility is the key!” So instead of leaving at 7:30 and getting to Iqaluit at eleven, we got here at four-ish. So I guess this was a welcome to traveling up north. Not to mention we almost forgot all of our food – much to the dismay of many of the boys on the expedition. So finally, after much drama, we made it off the ground. In a flurry of French, English, Spanish, Norwegian, a little German and a lot of laughter we managed to reach the yellow-submarine airport. It’s incredible to say, but the Iqaluit airport is an amazing shade of electric yellow. Later we made our way to the Nunavut Legislature where the Commissioner of Nunavut welcomed us... and joined our expedition! After a quick bus tour around town and a stop at a convenience store, we headed for the Zodiacs. We all suited up in our life jackets for our first Zodiac rides!!! As we raced further out of the port we found the ship, the Lyubov Orlova, which will be our home for the next two weeks. All of our team was super excited as we were showed to our rooms! I have to say it has been a long year but I can breathe easier now that I’m back. Of all things, I cried because I was so happy to be here. After a safety briefing and dinner, it was time to set sail. With all the decks abuzz with excitement and eager expeditioners, the horn blew, we raised anchor and we are off. Off for another expedition full of excitement, adventure and great friendships (not even mentioning the countless laughs we are all destined to share).



Today was a really intense day for me, returning for my third trip with SOI, as soon as I saw the ice, even from the airplane window, I was reminded of how much I love this place. It never ceases to amaze and inspire. In truth, being in this place redefines all of our conceptions about the world and it can make you feel as insignificant as a spec of dust but as powerful as the currents, knowing you are responsible for this place and you can affect it. This experience, both humbling and driving, is indescribable and I can’t wait for all my fellow ambassadors to finally understand where my bubbly, hyper excitement has been coming from.


By David Crane, Student

Today was a day of many surprises. To begin with we got an hour more sleep than scheduled…a great relief because few teenagers enjoy waking up at 6:00 AM. After a late breakfast and a quick meeting we headed to the airport. We boarded the planes and started to taxi towards the runway before we realized we had forgotten to load the expedition’s food, turning the plane around to make sure there was enough for the voyage.

Halfway through our flight many of us saw our first icebergs. Below on a sea of dark blue there floated huge chunks of white ice. These brilliant, colossal formations were what I came to see and reminded me of the Titanic. I also thought that they might not be around for my future children to see. This doubled my resolve to do all I could for the environment.




When we landed, the cold wind bit into my jacket the minute I got off the plane. It was here, standing outside of Iqaluit Airport, I realized how dirty the air back home is. The fresh, clean wind tasted good.

We were welcomed by Ann Hanson at the Nunavut Legislature, before we hurried over to a large group of huge chunks of ice that were sitting in the mud flats of Frobisher Bay, stranded by the high tide. During high tide these chunks of ice floated but since the tide moves so drastically here, during low tide, they just sit there. The ice was amazing, cold, and melting. This reminded us all of the rising temperatures.


Image credits (from top): 1) 3 Students tasting ice.; 2) Iqaluit and ice in Frobisher Bay.;3) The team loading the zodiac.

Monday, August 04, 2008

Our Students On Ice’s Youth Contributors share their expectations on their Arctic expedition!

Arctic Expedition 2008
By Students On Ice's Youth Contributors

Our Students On Ice's Youth Contributors share their expectations on the 15 day Arctic journey they are about to live!


By Alexandra LaPat Polasko

To a writer, publishing a book on his passions is his greatest dream. To a sailor, it’s of owning a boat. However, to me, it is learning and creating moments to help our earth’s ever growing climate crisis.

When I first found out about the Arctic on Ice Expedition, I knew that this was my chance to change not only myself, but to change the world. As in the words of Charles Dickens, I have many “Great Expectations” for this trip. However, a few that I hold high on my list consist of not only meeting life long friends to help, and guide me through my journey to saving our planet, but also, I plan to discover a new part of myself. I expect to strengthen my passion for adventure, and in our planet’s need for action.

The longer I keep thinking about this trip, the more I realize that I don’t just have “Great Expectations;” I have extraordinary expectations!


Thank you Arctic on Ice, you are my guiding light to a bright and moving future!




By Graham May

Two days ago, at the beginning of my first Students on Ice voyage, I left my hometown, not knowing what to expect. So far, I have learned many amazing truths about my country and myself, and I have met many amazing people from around the world.

As we continue northwards on our journey, I hope to learn much more about the polar world- a world that only a privileged few have ever experienced! I have every expectation that this will be a unique and life changing voyage!

In the coming weeks, I hope to saturate myself in the culture and beauty of the Northern life. I hope to spend time with the incredible scientists and youth that are sharing this experience with me. I hope to learn about the native Inuit we will encounter. And I hope to make some lifelong friends.

My ultimate hope for this program is that it will give me a different way to look at the world and my impact on it. And, most importantly, I hope that this program will help me to make a difference in the world!



By Rohit Mehta

In the coming weeks, I am expecting a multitude of experiences. I know we will board our ship with a diverse group of people, but I expect this to be much more than a ride on a ship.
There will be exchanges of stories and experiences. Lasting friendships are expected. There will be emotional moments, when the North will take our breath away.
I expect us to be enlightened by a deeper understanding of the Arctic, and how our lives are connected to it.
I expect laughs, tears, and moments of frustration, inspiration, and overwhelming motivation.
I expect the last flight back to Ottawa to be one full of reflection.
Finally, I expect this trip to change the way we look at our lives, and how we live them!






Image credits (from top): 1) A group photo at Parliament Hill in Ottawa.; 2)Students getting in shape on the grounds of Rideau Hall before departing for the Arctic Expedition