A Broader View: Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica

I really could have not asked for a better experience. The senior center in CR was the highlight of my trip, even on top of the vacation week I took beforehand. Every person I met was friendly to me, which fueled me to give my best effort in my project. I could tell that the workers and residents really appreciated my work. They answered all my questions. They appreciated that I was communicating in Spanish to them. They could tell I was really enjoying myself. I am still in contact with a couple of the workers! On my last day, one of the workers gave a speech in front of all the residents basically giving thanks to us the volunteers. Then a couple residents said a few words, but the most memorable thing was that a resident said that their country is always open to us in the future. I cannot express how grateful I am for this experience. It was hard to say goodbye, especially since some residents even shed some tears. They want me to come back soon! Seeing the impact I made, for what little time I was there, was just breathtaking. When I came back to the US, I really missed my time in Costa Rica. This experience has given me a new outlook on life and on my future, which is invaluable.

The pre medical program I was part of in Costa Rica was an awesome experience. I was lucky enough to volunteer at a hospital where I would help care for the babies or kids whose parents could not always be with them.
There are not enough nurses to care for all of the kids and the parents need to eat or sleep at some point and that is where the rest of the volunteers and I come in. We would help take care of the children. This could be as simple as sitting there and letting them play, or helping feed them. What was amazing to see was how happy many of the kids are even though they are in the hospital. Just playing with them for a few minutes is enough to see a big smile, which was great. It was so rewarding. Also, the family I was staying with was amazing.
Alice was the greatest cook, and she was so welcoming. She helped to show me around my first day in the country and was such a great help until my last day in Costa Rica. The weekends were also a great time to explore the country of Costa Rica. I was lucky enough to explore the Arenal area through zip lining and a trip to the hot springs. It is definitely something that everyone should do. Honestly, this program has been a blast and great in every area.