My first impressions of my study abroad trip to Costa Rica have been extremely enlightening and welcoming. The people here, specifically our homestay family, are warm and kind people who enjoy sharing their traditions and culture with those visiting. Here in Heredia, Costa Rica, there are vibrant landscapes that only add to the already lovely atmosphere of people. The majority of its charm, in my opinion, comes from the laid-back vibe of “Pura Vida” which encompasses the way of life here and the mindset of those who care for their environment, care for those around them, and look to live a happy and peaceful life. For the Costa Ricans, life is not simply about work, it is about living life to the fullest and enjoying the present joys that they can experience every day. This is one of the major differences from the fast-paced everyday hustle of the United States. From a business perspective, in the U.S. efficiency and productivity are prioritized while here in Costa Rica the people focus their efforts on the sustainability of their business as well as putting the benefits of others before their own. Living with my host family has been incredibly influential on my perspective of life as well as others’ cultures. They have welcomed me and ensured I feel included in their close-knit family by patiently teaching me about their practices, language, religion, and community. Their warmth and genuine excitement about my presence in their home is something I never could have expected coming into this experience. Throughout the rest of this trip, I am hoping to have more opportunities to explore the local businesses and how they differ from those that I have witnessed previously at home. This trip has already given me and will continue to provide me with, a broader view of global business and all that it encompasses.
