Going to Costa Rica was my first time out of the country. I don’t think I had many presumptions about the people or lifestyle before being immersed in this two week journey. Before, I think my scope of the world was limited to what I knew which was only the U.S. Going on this study abroad program completely changed my view on the world. I have realized now how much I have taken for granted and how many wishes that I have that have been formed from selfish intent.

Being in Costa Rica made me see and feel how much community should matter. People relied on each other to live. It’s such a beautiful thing to witness people with so much care in their hearts. This care wasn’t only about the human citizens but also about the domestic animals and wildlife.

You can also tell the citizens of Costa Rica love there country and enjoy sharing their culture and home with tourists and volunteers. The group that I experienced this with grew a bond. I am now glad to call them all my friends. Doing hard work everyday helps to connect people. We were able to have fun while helping and learning more about each other. We also got to learn from other volunteers that were helping with conservation work from all over the world. From this study abroad experience in Costa Rica I realized just how much I want to volunteer and learn from other cultures.

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Learn more about this blogger’s study abroad program: Global Service: Sea Turtle Conservation in Costa Rica