Portal Login
Meet Juan Quintanilla
Iceland 2024 – TGP Scholarship
Luther College
Biochemistry
Graduation Year: 2022
“The educational experience on TGP was dynamic and immersive, blending theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications.”
About Juan
My name is Juan Quintanilla and I am a biochemistry graduate. I have a strong passion for sustainability and understanding how science can drive environmental solutions. The GREEN Program caught my interest because it provides an opportunity to explore renewable energy and sustainability on a global scale, aligning perfectly with my academic background and career aspirations.
When I found out I was awarded the scholarship, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement. It was a validation of my commitment to sustainability and a chance to contribute to something bigger. I immediately thought about the new opportunities for personal growth, learning and experiences that this would open up.
The enrollment process was straightforward, but managing the logistics with my other commitments was a bit challenging. Initially, gathering all the necessary documents and aligning the program with my schedule required careful planning. However, the support from the TGP team made it much easier to navigate.
Juan’s Program Experience
Before joining the program, I expected to gain hands-on experience in sustainability and renewable energy while learning from experts in the field. The experience exceeded my expectations, offering not only technical knowledge but also a deeper understanding of how local communities are impacted and involved in these solutions. It was more immersive and inspiring than I anticipated.
Global experiences like TGP are crucial for underrepresented students because they provide exposure to diverse perspectives and real-world challenges that may not be accessible in traditional settings. These opportunities help build confidence, broaden networks, and inspire innovation by showing how diverse voices can contribute to global solutions.
The educational experience on TGP was dynamic and immersive, blending theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications. We explored a range of topics from renewable energy systems to sustainability initiatives, with a focus on how countries like Iceland are pioneering these fields.
One of my favorite learning moments was during our visit to a geothermal power plant, where we not only saw the technology in action but also engaged with experts who explained the science behind harnessing geothermal energy. This hands-on experience brought the classroom concepts to life, making it clear how science and innovation can be applied to drive large-scale sustainability efforts. It was both inspiring and empowering to witness the tangible impact of renewable energy on a national scale, especially in a country so deeply committed to environmental stewardship.
One of my biggest takeaways from the Iceland Program was seeing how a country can successfully harness renewable energy on a large scale. The hands-on experience with geothermal and hydropower technologies was eye-opening, and I gained a deeper appreciation for how science and policy work together to drive sustainable solutions. Additionally, the sense of community and collaboration among participants highlighted the importance of global teamwork in tackling environmental challenges.
Capstone Project
Our capstone project focused on developing an innovative mushroom-based packaging solution as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics. The idea stemmed from the desire to address the growing issue of plastic waste and explore sustainable materials.
The project began with our diverse team, each member hailing from different parts of the world, bringing unique perspectives and expertise. We combined our ideas and knowledge, which ranged from material science to environmental impact assessments. This collaborative approach helped us design a packaging material using mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, which is biodegradable and can be grown into various shapes and sizes.
One of the major challenges we faced was optimizing the mycelium growth conditions to ensure the material had the necessary strength and durability for practical use. To overcome this, we conducted a series of experiments, adjusting variables such as temperature, humidity, and nutrient sources. Regular testing and iterative refinements allowed us to improve the material’s properties and performance.
Another challenge was scaling up our process from small laboratory samples to larger, commercially viable quantities. We addressed this by partnering with a local manufacturer who helped us translate our research into a scalable production process while maintaining the sustainability of our solution.
The end result of our project was a fully functional mushroom-based packaging prototype that is both biodegradable and comparable in performance to conventional plastic. This packaging material not only offers a promising alternative to plastic but also demonstrates the potential of combining diverse ideas and expertise to tackle environmental issues innovatively.
Juan’s advice for new GREENies:
For students facing barriers to studying abroad, my advice is to start by researching scholarship and grant opportunities, as there are many specifically aimed at making programs like TGP accessible. Look into both university resources and external organizations that support underrepresented students.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to program coordinators, since many are willing to help with financial planning or flexible options. Networking with alumni who have gone through similar experiences can also provide valuable insights and support. Lastly, persistence is key if you’re passionate about it, there are ways to make it happen.
To Those That Made My Scholarship Possible…
I am deeply grateful to all of whom made my scholarship possible. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the donors whose generous contributions support this scholarship. Your commitment to fostering education and advancing environmental sustainability is truly inspiring and has made a significant difference in my academic journey.
I also want to express my appreciation to the scholarship committee for recognizing my potential and providing me with this invaluable opportunity. Your belief in my goals and dedication to supporting students in the field of environmental science is incredibly motivating.
A special thank you goes to the mentors and professors who have guided us throughout studies in Iceland. Their support, encouragement, and insightful work have been amazing in helping me pursue my passion.
Finally, I am grateful to my family and friends for their support and encouragement. Their belief in my aspirations and their constant motivation have been a driving force in my pursuit of this scholarship and my commitment to making a positive impact in the field of sustainability. Thank you all for your contributions and support. This scholarship not only aids in my educational pursuits but also reinforces my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world through sustainable practices.