Volunteering in a foreign country in any capacity is extremely rewarding, but my experience in Costa Rica has been beyond that. My 3- week stay here was tremendous. I worked as an English teacher and that experience helped me grow as a professional and it opened my eyes to the lives and cultures of those living in this unique country. None of this would have been possible without the incredible staff at Maximo Nivel. From day one the entire team was supportive and helpful and they made the headquarters a home away from home. I felt like I had everything I needed at all times and I have made friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I cannot imagine a more gratifying experience, nor a better organization to experience it with. Muchas gracias, Maximo!

The program I was assigned was the farthest away from Máximo's location. However, the trip was worth it. Everyday, I spent 2 hours teaching English to a bunch of adults. These adults will go on and eventually apply for jobs that were originally out of reach. This will greatly help them while living in La Carpio. I also took Spanish classes that greatly improved speaking ability. This experience was life-changing for me and especially my students.

I have recently returned from a month in Costa Rica, and I did a split volunteer project: two weeks in Coronado, teaching English and two weeks in Junquillal with the Verdiazul turtle conservation project. The projects could not have been more different, and they could not have been more wonderful. Working with students in San Jose allowed me to live like a local and get a taste of "normal" life. From living in the homestay to getting the bus to the placement, I felt part of the city, and this all added to the adventure. The students and volunteers I met where incredible, and I made friends with whom I still keep in touch. Stage two of my trip was a stark contrast, as I moved from the bustle of city to the tranquility of uncommercial beach life and the work was physical and fun, plus I learned plenty about turtles. Again, I was welcomed by a special group of people who truly care about conservation and preservation. In both places, I felt valued and appreciated. The smoothness of my experience was made possible through the professionalism of the Maximo Nivel team. I felt 100% supported by them. It is an incredible organization of people who work hard to make sure that the volunteers have an amazing experience, through the quality of the projects, home-stays, and social activities they provide. If you are sitting on the fence and wondering if to jump in and volunteer, I say leap: You won't look back :)

Maximo Nivel provided me with such an amazing experience! I took spanish classes and volunteered with children at a local preschool, both were great! I came here speaking very little spanish and the classes were very helpful. I had the opportunity to stay with one of the most AMAZING host families. As soon as I got to Costa Rica my host mom made me feel at home. She took amazing care of all of us that stayed with her. Costa Rica is such a beautiful place with such great people and I would highly recommend choosing this program!

My experience with Los Pollitos was more than I ever could have expected. I began my time here with few expectations and therefore I was blown away with the kindness I was surrounded by. Monica happily invited me into her classroom and I quickly began to help her teach the little ones as well as play everything from la casita (house) to el monstruo (monster). The language barrier can be overwhelming at times, but for those who volunteer in the future never be afraid to jump in. Little people are the best to practice with! I was able to truly contribute unique ideas as the weeks went on as I was able to check in with Monicas lesson plans and coordinate the activities I planned with the weeks theme. This is so important! Come ready to think outside the box, search through pintrest, and find coloring sheets! This project has so much to offer, however, the experience is only what you put in! Have fun and love those little ones lots and lots because I guarentee they will love you!

Our second night of arriving in Ostional we got to experience an Arribada. Over 4,500 sea turtles came to lay their eggs on the beach right in front of us. It was the coolest thing I have ever experienced in my life. The support staff was beyond welcoming and friendly. I would do this trip again in a heartbeat. I loved it and will definitely miss it. Above all I will miss all of the amazing people I met during this trip. All though I can barely form a sentence in Spanish everyone was so kind. I would recommened this trip to anyone who has an interest in helping our communitites and seeing beautiful creatures while working! Pura Vida!

Teaching in La Carpio will forever be one of my most memorable experiences. Although the work is very challenging, it is incredibly rewarding. I feel so blessed to have met these incredible students and their families. The amount of appreciation, love and eagerness to learn is a clear depiction of how important this work is. You will have challenging days with your students. However, every day you will experience moments connecting with your students that make it all worthwhile. Your students may not always show it, but your hard work is appreciated and you are loved by them! Teaching in La Carpio is an indescribable experience that will leave you forever grateful for taking on the challenge.

I came to Costa Rica for 6 weeks, alone, so naturally I was a bit nervous, especially considering my Spanish skills are pretty limited. Almost as soon as I got to Maximo though, most of my nerves went away. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and knew exactly what was going on and what I needed to be doing and didn't hesitate to help when I asked. They took me to meet my host family who immediately welcomed me into their home. They took me to Maximo for my orientation and brought me back afterwards so I knew how to get there on my own. My first day at my project, I met for the ESL Crash Course and the project orientation by a Maximo Nivel staff member took me out to the project. They showed me how to get there, introduced me to the family at the home and all the students, helped me figure out how to teach the first day, and showed me the way home. The next day when I went on my own, I felt completely prepared. When you first get to La Carpio, it may seem a bit intimidating as it is a very poor area and near the landfill, but I honestly never felt unsafe while I there. The entire family was incredibly welcoming and I immediately felt like a part of it. They watched out for me and the other volunteers like we had lived with them our entire lives. I honestly felt like I was able to make an impact in their lives, as well as have mine changed for the better. I wish that I could stay longer and I'm honestly leaving a part of my heart at Vuelo.