Why did you decide to volunteer with Global Volunteers in Costa Rica?
Sara: I chose to volunteer with GV after a very good friend of mine, Kendra, encouraged me to explore programs. Kendra had already experienced the Cook Islands with GV, and we decided to explore Costa Rica because of the type of work we would be doing there.
Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.
Sara: Each day began with a team breakfast, and then we headed up the mountain to Canitas to begin our work for the day. The activities differed each day but the majority of the time was spent mixing cement, painting, landscaping, and cleaning. We were on the site for 8 hours each day, but had frequent coffee breaks and a wonderful lunch that the women in the community prepared for us. Working side by side with the team members from all different places allowed for great conversation, and we all truly bonded during our time there. The evening consisted of a team dinner in town and preparing for the next day (a few nights of card games and talks were also in there!)
What made this volunteer abroad experience unique and special?
Sara: Without the team leader, Nia, the experience would not have been what it was. Nia was great from the start, focusing the team on our goals and encouraging us to get to know each other. She had a great relationship with the locals and made communicating with the community much easier. What was also so unique about our team is how well we all got along. Members of the team ranged from 9-72 years old, and we all got to know each other and became very close during the two weeks we spent there. I guess I wasn’t prepared for how much fun I would have doing manual labor for 8 hours a day!
How has this experience helped you grow?
Sara: This was my first time out of the United States, so experiencing another country and way of life really changed how I viewed my own life. Costa Rica was one of the most beautiful countries, and the people there were so wonderful.
Professionally, volunteering was a huge resume booster. I was surprised to be asked about my volunteering and community service during an interview for pharmacy school, but I was thrilled to be able to share my experience again!