Amigos de las Americas

I visited Paraguay this past summer and resided in the tiny town of Santa Rosa. It was an absolutely amazing experience filled with exciting, memorable, and occasionally scary adventures. During my trip, I got to know some of my favorite people, including my incredible amigos friends, whom I adore, and all of these incredibly kind people who welcomed me into their families and communities. I will also always remember my project staff's generosity and their unwavering support. I'm incredibly appreciative of everyone who helped make this experience possible because it has changed the way I view my life and my future. Anyone who is willing to try new things and wants to have an experience of a lifetime should definitely check this out

My time on the Amigos: Marine and Mountain Exploration trip in Costa Rica was extremely worthwhile. All of the staff were super kind and supportive, as well as the host families who I stayed with. I was inspired by the local organizations we partnered with, and learned a ton about sustainable agriculture, sea turtles, and local life in the 2 places I stayed, Guayabo and Parismina. Additionally, this trip gave me the chance to experience things I had never done before, like making my own chocolate, seeing wild sea turtles, and milking a cow. While each trip is different, and will most likely not do exactly the same things I did, it will still definitely be a once in a lifetime experience.

AMIGOS has been a life-changing experience. Not only does AMIGOS broaden your worldwide perspective, but it teaches you so much about culture that other programs might not. Living with the community in pairs and exploring in groups enables you to experience a nearly fully immersed experience. I learned so much about regenerative farming practices and the organizations in Panama that are working to implement these technologies. AMIGOS also has so many different options. From long programs to short ones and from Costa Rica to Panama, AMIGOS has at least one program that will interest you!

I entered this project with an array of cheerleaders: Krista, Charlotte, Dorothy, and Mateo ('23 alumni). Their support was the reason why I continued with the application process, and I must say, it was worth it. The nine weeks I spent in Costa Rica were the most liberating and life-changing experiences. Not only did I learn more about Costa Rican culture, but also the meaning of how to love and live in the moment—pura vida. These lessons are some that I will forever cherish, and aim to use in my everyday life as a form of inspiration.

I loved going to Costa Rica over the summer through the La Pezeta program with AMIGOS. Although I was apprehensive of staying with a host family when I don't speak any Spanish and have never taken a Spanish class before, it worked out great and my host mom was super accomodating. I would just recommend doing some lessons on Duolingo before you leave. Additionally, not having a phone provided a great break from normal life and helped me immerse myself in the community. It truly is unique in providing a local experience rather than the typical tourist experience. It was one of the most fun times of my life, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who's considering going.