Attending Ecology Project International: Costa Rica was unbelievable. The people I met allowed me to view life in a different light. I learned that in life, the small things are the most valuable things. When I first arrived in San Jose, Costa Rica, I noticed how happy everyone was. The more I talked with my instructors, the more I learned that some of the people who lived near EPI's campus (the happy people I saw) went days without eating satisfactory meals, yet their attitudes reflected the complete opposite. Costa Rican's have a popular phrase, "Pura Vida." Pura Vida has different meanings, it can be a hello, a thank you, or even a life is awesome. And although not all of them have wealth, they all manage to find their "Pura Vida."

Not only did I enjoy meeting people, I pushed myself in ways I had never pushed myself. I flew into Golfito, I swam in Golfo Dulce, I worked with Black and Hawksbill sea turtles, I hiked through the rainforest, and I was able to eat popular Costa Rican dishes. Also, I was able to zipline in the rainforest!

Being away from home changed me. Even though at times I got homesick, I enjoyed myself and I pushed through, and at the end of my program I realized I was more independent and responsible.

Thanks to your donations, I was able to attend this program. And thanks to this program, I have grown into a better person and have memories that I will never forget.

I am so excited to attend Ecology Project International: Costa Rica this summer! I can not wait to work with the endangered Leatherback Sea Turtles in an effort to restore some of the damage these beautiful animals face. Going to a new country, experiencing the culture while pursuing my passion still feels unreal. I'm happy to work alongside peers who share my passion and am anxiously getting prepared for this unforgettable summer. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience- never in my life did I think this would be possible, and I am grateful for all my donors. I'll keep you all updated! :)