Hi everyone! My name is Kyrsta Girardi, and I am a freshman intending on majoring in civil engineering, potentially on the environmental engineering track. I also would like to pursue either a certificate in sustainability or a minor in architecture.

Outside of classes, you can find me spending time with friends, exploring the city, going to the gym, or dancing. I have been a dancer since I was very young, and am currently a member of the Pitt Dance Ensemble. I am also a member of Food Recovery Heroes, which is a volunteer organization that aims to reduce food waste and food insecurity on campus and within the city. Throughout my time at Pitt, I look forward to becoming more involved with both of these organizations.

This summer, I will be participating in the Plus3 Costa Rica program. This program stood out to me because I have always had a desire to study abroad, but I have never actually been outside of the country before. Since this program is only two weeks long, it provides an opportunity to get a taste of what a study abroad experience would be like without committing to an entire semester abroad. I selected Costa Rica because I think it would be really valuable to learn more about the production process behind coffee and bananas, which are two products that I love! Also, Costa Rica is a beautiful country with wonderful weather and delicious food, and I am so excited to experience it in real life!

During this trip, I hope to learn more about Costa Rican culture and broaden my cultural perspective. I also hope to broaden my engineering perspective by getting to look further into the business practices involved, and to be able to see these practices be put into place outside of the classroom. I also look forward to expanding my network and forming both personal and professional connections.

May 5th is almost here and I could not be more excited! Hasta pronto, Costa Rica!