Studying abroad in Costa Rica has been one of the most grounding and perspective-changing experiences of my life. Before arriving, I expected to learn about international business practices, but I did not anticipate how deeply this experience would reshape the way I think about work, relationships, and success. Being immersed in Costa Rican culture showed me that business is not just about results, but about people, purpose, and the pace at which life is lived.
One of the biggest differences I noticed between doing business in the United States and Costa Rica is workplace culture. In the U.S., business often feels fast-paced and outcome-driven, with constant pressure to maximize efficiency and productivity. In Costa Rica, the emphasis is much more human-centered. People take time to build relationships before discussing business, and conversations feel genuine rather than transactional. There is a strong respect for balance, well-being, and mutual trust, which honestly creates a more meaningful and sustainable way of working.
Communication styles also differ greatly. In Costa Rica, communication is more personal and relational. Instead of jumping straight into agendas and metrics, people value face-to-face conversation, storytelling, and emotional awareness. This was especially evident during our company visits, where leaders spoke openly about their missions, values, and responsibility to employees and the environment. Seeing businesses prioritize long-term impact over short-term gain challenged the way I previously defined success.
Living with a host family was one of the most impactful parts of the program. Sharing meals, daily routines, and conversations helped me truly understand Costa Rican values on a deeper level. It taught me the importance of slowing down, being present, and appreciating human connection. These moments strengthened my cultural awareness and communication skills in ways I didn’t know possible.
Cultural excursions and lectures further reinforced these lessons. Whether learning about sustainability, social responsibility, or local entrepreneurship, I saw how deeply culture influences business decisions. Costa Rica showed me that purpose and profitability can coexist, and that leading with values creates stronger organizations.
This experience has shifted how I view my future career. Moving forward, I want to prioritize relationship-building, lead with empathy, and advocate for purpose-driven leadership. Costa Rica taught me that success is not just about what you accomplish, but how you treat people along the way. I will carry these lessons with me forever.
