Costa Rica: Taylor Olson
Program: UW Team Building in Costa Rica, Summer
Taylor’s Major: Physical Education
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
The most memorable experience from my program was arriving at the beach in Manuel Antonio. After a long day of travel, the group came together to spend time enjoying the scenery and each other’s company. We spent the evening engaging in team building exercises and watching the sunset over the ocean. This moment remains one of the most peaceful of my life.
Events and activities may not go to plan, but being flexible and taking things one step at a time ensures a positive learning experience. Be open to learning about yourself, others, and what it means to be a good team member and leader.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
Go into the experience with an open mind. Events and activities may not go to plan, but being flexible and taking things one step at a time ensures a positive learning experience. Be open to learning about yourself, others, and what it means to be a good team member and leader.
What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?
The motto of Costa Rica is “Pura Vida”, which translates to pure life or simple life. It is used as a greeting or a way to say “everything is good”. Pura Vida means appreciating everything, taking it easy, and being positive. It is a way of life for Costa Ricans and a motto I hope to apply more to my daily life.