Blog

My First Days in Costa Rica: Marie MacDonald’s Experience

December 21, 2019

By Marie MacDonald

2 min read

Every day, I am still in disbelief that my paths have finally led me to both live and work in Costa Rica. I have wanted to come to Costa Rica for many years now, making it one of my top countries to visit or vacation to, but never would I have thought that I would be pursuing my career in International Education in one of the most beautiful countries of the world.

Since arriving several weeks ago, I have felt nothing but joy as I wake up to an early morning sunrise; taste the delicious, tropical fruits; explore the jungles filled with monkeys and sloths; partake in birthday parties and BBQ’s with my host family that have graciously accepted me as one of their own; and meet incredible people in my working place that truly demonstrate the benefits of a cultural immersion program.

I am so glad I chose to complete my internship in Costa Rica with an organization that values a truly transformative experience and encourages students to break the stereotypes of a typical study abroad semester. Which reminds me, I could not agree any more with the importance and value of the Costa Rican term Pura Vida, or Pure Life, when it comes to enjoying and living life in this country.

I am very much looking forward to what these next months here have in store for me and my professional development in the amazing, wondrous, and unique field of International Education. Thank you for welcoming me so kindly, Costa Rica.