Goodbyes were difficult, but I finally made it home. I spent my last night in Costa Rica by taking my host family out to dinner as a thank you. I also spent my last night …
Taryn Lempa
Monkeys and Ants and Snakes, Oh My!
Last weekend, I went to Manuel Antonio, the world’s second most beautiful national park. The bus ride was four hours but it was well worth it. A group of students and I stayed in a …
Fire and Water
This past weekend, I hiked an active volcano, swam in hot springs, and walked through several different kinds of rainforests to see a waterfall. I guess you could say that I’m living the dream. A …
Volleyball and McFlurries
After having so many activities planned, by last weekend I was ready for a break. So instead of booking more excursions, I decided to spend a weekend at my host home to see what it …
Earthquakes and Whistles
Today was the last day of my first Spanish class. After two weeks of studying grammar, memorizing vocab, reading newspapers, and writing papers, I took my final exam. I’m extremely proud of myself for learning …
Chocolate Coffee and Deadly Beaches
On Thursday after class, the other study abroad student and I returned home after class and the house alarm went off. Most homes here have an ADT home security system despite already having metal bars …
Cockroaches and Laundry
One thing I was worried about regarding this trip was my host family. I had no idea who I would be living with until a week and a half before departure. Now that I’m here …
School Can Be…Fun?
Today was my first day of school and it was amazing. I woke up at 6:30 to get ready and have breakfast at 7. My host family “sister” drove the other study abroad student and …
First Impressions
I arrived safely in San Jose, Costa Rica last night and my first full day is coming to a close. My flight from Chicago to Miami went extremely smoothly but I can’t say the same …
Pura Vida
When do you leave? How long will you be gone? What will you be doing there? Have you started packing yet? Are you excited? Nervous? Okay, so all the questions from everybody can get to …