I chose this program ultimately because I love to travel and I have never been to Costa Rica before. To me, traveling is a way for me to experience new people, foods, and cultures while learning how to be independent and responsible which are important skills in life. Also, another reason why I chose this program is that I got a full Ontario credit that can go directly towards my high school diploma.
Alumni Spotlight: Mason Drutz
Mason Drutz is an energetic, passionate and confident person who is really good at public speaking and interacting with people. He is an avid sports fan, lover of rock and roll music and has a true passion for traveling.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
My program provider (Blyth) taught me the entire Ontario grade 10 science curriculum. They thoroughly explained requirements regarding tests and assignments and they clearly identified specific things to do to be successful while taking the course. On my own, I had to create my own study notes so that I was completely prepared for tests and evaluations.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to always be open-minded.
Being open-minded is very important because, although you may do things that are out of your comfort zone, you must be optimistic because you will never know how much you love or dislike something unless you try it.
Being open minded will allow you to take more risks and to try new things.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
An average day starts with breakfast in the morning, class for about 2-3 hours, a lunch break for about 1 hour, a planned activity, an afternoon class for about 1 hour, dinner for about 1 hour and then after dinner; there will sometimes be a quick evening class or an evening program planned. Then, as the day comes to an end, we all go to bed.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I would say that my biggest fear was that I was going to a country that I have never been to before, so I did not know what to expect about food, people and sleeping arrangements. I overcame this fear by realizing that the people in Costa Rica are so nice, the food is amazing and the hotels are very comfortable to say in. In the future, I will not be fearful about traveling somewhere I have never been to because I can trust that wherever I go, it will be safe.
How much free time do you get?
Usually, on the program, you get free time during the evening after dinner when you are done with class, and occasionally, you will get time after lunch to hang out with friends. In addition, if you are finished with an assignment or homework early, you are able to have extra free time.