Life Changing

I know a lot of people say that trips such as this one change their lives, but this really did for me. I was at a stage in my life and career where I had to decide if I continue pursuing my dream of working in conservation, or give up and take a different path. I chose to do the 6 week internship in Jalova, Costa Rica and it was one of the best decisions I every made. I chose the internship over the standard conservation volunteering as I felt it offered me more opportunities to grow the skills I need for a career in conservation and build my confidence as a leader. It was definitely the right decision, I just wish I had chosen to stay longer!
The staff on base are a credit to the company and really make you feel safe and welcome from the moment you meet them. They have so much knowledge about Tortuguero National Park and all its inhabitants you will definitely learn a lot more from them than you could ever gain from books alone.
The camp is very remote, but this is part of its charm. Get away from technology and enjoy the sights and sounds around you. This remoteness also helps staff and volunteers to form very close friendships in a short space of time. The facilities are described as basic, but a lot of work was being done while I was there to update things and really, when you are living in the middle of the jungle, it is pretty impressive how well equipped they actually are.
I saw so many amazing species while I was in Jalova, you get extremely involved in all of the research being conducted in the park. The birds were the surprise for me, I knew they would be a big part of the ecosystem (as they are all over the world) but what surprised me was how much I loved seeing them and the thrill of identifying them.
Since returning home, Jalova now has a special place in my heart. I am determined to work in conservation and am considering returning for a long-term internship. I feel the place has so much to offer, no two days are the same and I feel I could still gain so much more from it.
Be prepare to be constantly sweaty and sandy, go with a positive attitude and say "Hola" to Big Steve the camps resident green iguana for me!