A first visit to the Antarctic is likely to be a significant experience, especially for those who have had a long-term interest in the region and hence are highly motivated to be there. This study sought to address scientific, artistic and pragmatic objectives relating to the visit of 20 GCAS 2001 students, of whom just under half completed questionnaires and video interviews about their expectations and experiences. The data gathered allowed testing of the theory that our response expectancies shape our experiences (Kirsch, 1985). This theory was generally confirmed. However, the small sample size and uniformity of the participants' expectations and experiences does not permit rigorous conclusions to be drawn about the theory that the level of satisfaction we feel about an experience is, part, determined by how closely aligns with our expectations of it. prior to the trip, few participants felt strongly that they were about to have a life-changing experience, and most seemed to be actively managing their expectations to ensure they were not disappointed. As a result of this, and also perhaps as a reflection on both the accuracy of the information being conveyed in the GCAS course and the actual impact which Antarctica has on people, all seem to have found that their expectations were met fairly closely, or exceeded. GCAS coordinators can use suggestions drawn from some of the interview comments to enhance the experiences of future students. Major pluses included maximising "camping' time and group cohesion, drawbacks included trying to cram everythlng a very limited amount of time. A first visit to the Antarctic is likely to be a significant experience, especially for those who have had a long-term interest in the region and hence are highly motivated to be there. This study sought to address scientific, artistic and pragmatic objectives relating to the visit of 20 GCAS 2001 students, of whom just under half completed questionnaires and video interviews about their expectations and experiences. The data gathered allowed testing of the theory that our response expectancies shape our experiences (Kirsch, 1985). This theory was generally confirmed. However, the small sample size and uniformity of the participants' expectations and experiences does not permit rigorous conclusions to be drawn about the theory that the level of satisfaction we feel about an experience is, part, determined by how closely aligns with our expectations of it. prior to the trip, few participants felt strongly that they were about to have a life-changing experience, and most seemed to be actively managing their expectations to ensure they were not disappointed. As a result of this, and also perhaps as a reflection on both the accuracy of the information being conveyed in the GCAS course and the actual impact which Antarctica has on people, all seem to have found that their expectations were met fairly closely, or exceeded. GCAS coordinators can use suggestions drawn from some of the interview comments to enhance the experiences of future students. Major pluses included maximising "camping' time and group cohesion, drawbacks included trying to cram everythlng a very limited amount of time.