Some schools even have a semester abroad as a graduation requirement. A combination of waiting tables in a restaurant, applying for scholarships specifically for students going abroad (my Gilman Scholarship) and great support from my school's Global Studies Office, I was able to plan and fund my adventures.
In the past three months, I saw just a fraction of what this beautiful country has to offer: from the Pacific to the Caribbean, the oceans to the rainforests, the city to the country, and so much more. I learned how Maria and her family live and was welcomed with open arms. The relationship that I have formed with her is one that will last forever. Maria often video chats and messages with her past students! I've gone out of my comfort zone: from being too shy to speak in Spanish to having meaningful conversations with my Tico friends and family. I am so thankful to have been able to have this experience right before I graduate, but I cannot wait to see all my University friends when I return! No matter where life takes each of you, I hope that it takes you to places you have never seen before and challenges your comfort zone. It has been so much fun being able to share my journey with your class, and I hope one day I can look back at these journals as a memory of my time abroad. I also encourage you all to stick with your Spanish speaking, as it is an extremely important skill that can open all kinds of doors for you in life. Thank you all so much for listening to my stories, and I wish you all the best in your future travels!
