If I had to choose one word to describe my perception of Costa Rica’s sustainability initiatives, it would be: “ambitious”. They are certainly punching above their weight, considering how heavy the commitment to conservation is for such a small nation. This is certainly a virtue that is to be admired, as a growth mindset with an emphasis on innovation can work wonders, especially for a national economy. Through progress in the form of renewable energy and protected wildlife areas, they are currently succeeding in making environmentalism work towards their personal advantage. While I am doubtful regarding the direct effect that such a relatively tiny country can have on the overall health of the Earth as a whole, I would say that these initiatives can have huge long-term impacts by acting as trendsetters for more influential nations. Given that the number one obstacle facing environmental sustainability is its expense, Costa Rica can hopefully encourage larger nations to become more sustainable via its own economic prosperity.

Aunque los sitios, la naturaleza, y la industria son increibles, la razon más prominente que me provoca interés es la cultura y, también, la oportunidad para practicar el idioma. He estudiado español para doce años y soy legalmente bilingüe, pero sin embargo, nunca he visitado un país hispanoablante en mi vida. En Costa Rica, puedo usar esta educación en una manera productiva y real, lo que contrasta mucha con las tareas académicas muy estructuradas que están practicados en las clases. Estoy tan entusiasmado para tener conversaciones honestas que no puedo esperar hasta aparecemos para hablarlo; Nececito hacerlo ahora. ¡El aeropuerto de San José es demasiado tarde para empezar para mi!

Hopefully this, along with my attached photo (which I definitely did not take as soon as we were handed free bananas during our second pre-departure meeting) show how excited I am!