Costa Rica has shown me I really do not know Spanish. A summer class at blinn and taking a refresher course on Duolingo 3 weeks prior will not properly prepare you, in case you were wondering. But that?s the beauty of Costa Ricans, or Ticos as they prefer, is that they are kind and patient and are excited to help you learn. I have barely understood any of the jokes I have been told by Mama Tica, but I have genuinely laughed at every one of them. The place is much different than College Station, but you can feel a similar sense of companionship in many of the people you will meet.
It has been interesting to interact with the businesses and see what they lack as well as what we do back home. The culture of growing and being a life-long student is much more prevalent here. David, who gave us insight into the ziplining company we visited, told us about his dreams to become an environmental lawyer and he is well into his thirties. It was awesome to see him still following his dreams, but also to see the company support his dream. All of Ticos bring each other up and push each other forward as a full group effort. Something I believe the U.S. could take a not from. What their company lacked was some basic marketing and networking efforts. It seemed so simple and obvious, but with the resources it was not as easy a task as it would be as home. Hopefully we will be able to help the company reach this goal!