Studying abroad had always been a long-awaited dream, and this past winter it finally came true. Being able to travel to Costa Rica with the amazing student body of Texas A&M and an amazing professor was a highlight of a lifetime. The two weeks we were in Costa Rica were full of new knowledge, adventure, and unforgettable memories. From the first day in the beautiful country to the last hour spent in the San Jose airport, we learned of the rich culture, the people, the way of living, and most importantly how businesses in Costa Rica function and prosper. I enjoyed the experience of being able to live with a homestay for 2 weeks, this gave us hands-on and real-life insight into Costa Rican people and how they live, what they eat every day (Gallo Pinto- rice and beans), and how they are as people. My roommate, Sloane, and I would stay up talking to our MamaTica, Marlen, and her husband, Gilbert. They showed us how to play a new game of cards, Marlen made us her famous Costa Rican dishes every day, and their dogs, Alice and Lucy, welcomed us with wagging tails and lots of cuddles. Although we learned about the Costa Rica culture daily, having a cooking class, dancing class, and visiting the downtown market in Heredia to try local fruits gave us firsthand experiences. We also visited companies such as Sibu Chocolate, Britt Cafe, a local hotel, and a zipline eco-tourism business. While visiting, we got to ask questions to the owners and managers of these small, successful Costa Rican companies. Questions varied from “how do you market your company” to “how did this company start.” Every company visit was very interesting and we learned that they each come from a certain background, all have their own way of advertising, follow their own beliefs and stick to them, and how they overcame struggles such as COVID. Having lectures at the ULatina of Costa Rica from Dr. Juan Sanchez Sanchez helped us better understand business in Costa Rica and what to expect when coming into contact with them. He gave us information on how Costa Rican businesses pay numerous taxes, how to start a company in Costa Rica, social security, wages, and the work environment. I believe this study abroad experience helped me better myself in my professional and personal life. Being able to be part of an amazing group of people who are all so bright and have so much to bring to this world was a plus.
