Internships in Heredia, Costa Rica

This took me a long time to write because I wasn’t sure what to say. I had such a great time being part of this experience for two main reasons: visiting a new place and completing my internship. However, it was also very challenging for me for several reasons. I was sick during the first week and missed out on a lot, and I also faced some friendship issues along the way. Because of this, I wasn’t able to experience everything to the fullest. Despite these challenges, this trip allowed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. I had to become more independent and confident in myself. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and made new friends, which is something I am very proud of. I am so grateful that I took this opportunity. Being part of Casa Luz is something I will always cherish, and I only wish I had been able to spend more time there. It was beautiful to see the young mothers grow into their roles, balancing motherhood while still holding on to parts of their own childhood and identity. Although this experience may have been centered around lesson plans for the children, I felt it was just as much if not more for the mothers. I almost wish the focus had been more directly centered on them, since they participated so actively. Regardless of the challenges, it was truly an amazing experience, and I learned so much about myself through it.

I was originally supposed to go study in broad in Germany and France. That program got canceled due to not getting enough students so when I heard, I had the chance to shadow ABROAD in Central America I immediately jumped on it. I have to admit at first I did have an initial culture shock due to the language barrier, and I wish that the complete language barrier would’ve been communicated more thoroughly especially before I signed up for the trip. I feel like I had the time of my life and I had a once in a lifetime experience, and I felt deeply in love with Costa Rica and the people. My home stay was very nice and warm and comforting.