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| Windmills in Monteverde |
Upon visiting what is arguably one of the most naturally beautiful countries of the world, I began preparing myself for my trip of a lifetime well before necessary! After hearing the good news that I would be studying abroad in sunny Costa Rica, I found myself buying shorts, sunscreen, Chap Stick with high SPF year ‘round. I could not wait to go experience other parts of the world for the first time! But “why Costa Rica?” was a frequent question I was asked before my departure. Other than the obvious – it’s warm there in January! – so many other reasons factored into my interests in this particular study abroad program.
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| CATIE research center in Cartago |
Not only did this international experience offer outdoor fitness in ways I hadn’t yet experienced such as zip-lining over a volcano, snorkeling, and beach yoga; it also provided personal insight to a cultural that I have been curious about. I have been volunteering as an English as a Second Language tutor for adults for almost three years now. All the while I have been exposed to numerous cultures throughout Latin America. I would hear of foods, music, stores, and close knit communities. The only connection I could make with them was our shared knowledge of and experiences in America. However, now that I have had the opportunity to study the culture of Costa Rica, I can finally relate with them on different levels. I have seen communities with the soccer field being the main attraction and different families circling around the watch the neighborhood kids all play. I have experienced rice and beans for every meal, sided with fresh fruit and grilled chicken. I have heard locals speak of their pride for their country and witnessed how a country’s dedication for sustainability can really change the world. While I applied for Costa Rica hoping to learn and experience in different and interesting ways, I never expected the love and appreciation I now to develop so strongly.
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| Monteverde, Costa Rica |
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| White-nosed Coati |
Dr. Swann told the group before we even got to the airport that if we learned even a tiny bit of biology, she’d be happy. This trip proved to teach biology, sustainability, and culture every day in ways that you didn’t know you were learning until you looked back at it. On our second day in Costa Rica, we toured a small, local farm that had around 145 cows. The farm was able to reduce electricity used by 40% by converting cow manure to biodiesel. Later into the trip, I was able to see Costa Rica’s national bird, a small brown bird. Even though Costa Rica is filled with hundreds of beautifully and vibrantly colored birds, the clay-colored thrush was chosen as a national bird. As described by a native, the thrush gets up early every morning and sings beautiful songs throughout the entire morning, making it seem to be optimistic and friendly. Looking back on Costa Rica and saying it was an experience of a lifetime is the understatement of the year.
Big thanks to Bruce and Dr. Swann to making it as wonderful as it was!