Winter Break 2019 Participant
"Pura Vida" truly describes the Costa Ricans' way of life, and that saying will always be a part of me. Seeing how they live their life has made me more appreciative of what the world has to offer and the people that lives in it. From seeing the breathtaking views to be able to have a basic conversation in Spanish, I am immensely grateful for this opportunity. You learn things that stick with you in the back of your mind that you cannot wait to tell everybody back home and that motivates you to make the world a better place. Even though the trip must end, it never truly ends.
Ariane Michelle Wright, Winter Break 2015 Participant
My answer won't be adequate if I limit it to favorites. For twelve days, we were immersed in an idealistic world of exploration. In a way, the experience reminded me of Darwin exploring the Galapagos, though we certainly weren't making new scientific discoveries. I do think, however, we discovered something equally as important-- discoveries on the art of living. Costa Rican natives, or Ticos, view life in the context of "Pura Vida" (the pure life). From learning and experiencing the flora of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, to whitewater rafting, to investigating a roadside fruit stand, to horseback riding, to hearing a coffee plantation owner speak of the intensive process going into one cup of coffee, to the friendships formed among our group of 25, travel writing and Costa Rica changed perspective. It helped us rediscover something often lost in the whirlwind of our busy lives -- each moment is precious and an opportunity to grow.
Winter Break 2020 Participant
I honestly appreciated how relatively stress-free the program turned out to be. As a novice to international travel, I felt relieved to have so many decisions concerning lodging and food and transfer already made for us. It really allowed for me to relax, take in beautiful scenery, and to be open to each new experience.
