Why did you decide to study abroad with Maximo Nivel?
Lindsey: I decided to study abroad with Maximo Nivel because they have such a great reputation in the volunteering community. It is such a well run organization and every staff member is so helpful, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile in helping make your volunteer experience memorable. Volunteering with a local organization here in Costa Rica like Maximo Nivel is really the best way to make the most of your time here. They are familiar with the communities and really know where you can make the most impact. They're knowledge, extremely dedicated, and very passionate about what they do. They are such wonderful people and I feel lucky to have met them. Maximo Nivel also provided continuous support throughout my entire stay in Costa Rica and definitely helped make the transition of coming to a new country a very smooth process. I would highly recommend them to anyone who was looking to volunteer abroad.
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Lindsey: This experience was unique because it really immersed you into Costa Rican culture from day one. I lived with a host family for 3 months and it was a great way to improve my Spanish and gain more of a culturally unique experience. I was exposed to different customs, festivals, food, and people that not a regular tourist would have the chance to experience.
Maximo Nivel was a wonderful organization to do my volunteering through not only because of its great reputation and dedicated staff, but also because of its connections with other volunteers from all over the world. You develop strong friendships with people and memories that will last a lifetime. In addition, this experience was very special because it gave volunteers enough independence to really make an impact at their projects as well as enough freedom to travel and explore the beauty of Costa Rica on the weekends.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Lindsey: This experience has been life changing. I wanted to come to Costa Rica to learn more about myself and help children in low income communities. I wanted to experience new people and places, learn a new language, challenge myself by letting go of my comfort zone, and gain a greater appreciation for other cultures and the world at large. This experience achieved all of this and so much more. It taught me to take risks in life, increased my confidence, and made me more motivated to achieve my goals in the future. It takes a lot of courage to drop everything and travel abroad, and this journey proved to be one of the best investments of my time and effort that I have ever put into anything I have done. In addition, it really made me realize how grateful I am for everything I have in my life.
On a professional note, after this experience, I have decided to pursue a Masters degree in Education. I want to continue helping people in low income communities and continue working with children.