This opportunity to study abroad in Costa Rica has not only been a priceless experience, but an eye-opening one as well in regard to the differences in daily life compared to the United States. Waking up with the sun was something I despised previously, but this was the norm during this trip, as the sun sets very early. As Americans, sleeping in until 10 or 11 in the morning is not seen as too bad, but that would be unheard of in Costa Rica because the city comes alive around 6:30 ? 7 in the morning. Another difference I noticed, especially with regard to the business culture of Latin America, is that loyalty is very important. Not only is family of dire importance to the Costa Rican people, but also to businesses as well. For example, Caf? Britt, a Costa Rican coffee company also participating in a wide range of shops, kiosks, and cafes, will hold off on business opportunities if they would be in direct competition with one of their customers. By respecting their customers and not stealing their customer?s profits by adding a souvenir shop or a caf? next to a store that sells their products, their customers will not only continue to sell Caf? Britt products, but this also creates an environment of trust and selflessness to Caf? Britt, boosting the company?s reputation to surrounding businesses. There were many other standout differences in the social and business cultures of Costa Rica and the United States and all of the lessons I learned I will take with me as I continue my education and in my career. By placing myself in this program, I learned how to truly appreciate differences in both culture and with others. We had a wide range of people with us on this trip, and I genuinely believe that this trip would not have been as fun, eye-opening, or memorable as it was had just one person not been in our group. One of the most important personal lessons I learned is how to deal with such a wide range of characteristics, personalities, quirks, pet peeves, etcetera. I believe that this will be extremely useful in my professional life and will aid me in making the most of any situation I am put in, both in my career and in my personal life.
