Students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Costa Rica, traveling to the remote, biodiverse Osa Peninsula and participating in hands-on conservation activities and cultural immersion. Students partnered with scientists from LAST (Latin American Sea Turtles) to support ongoing marine research and habitat restoration efforts.
They learned to set nets properly in coastal waters, carefully captured turtles for data collection, and assisted in measuring and tagging both the Green sea turtle and the Hawksbill sea turtle. Under expert guidance, they recorded biological data before safely releasing the turtles back into the ocean, contributing to long-term monitoring and protection of these species. They also received instruction on the ecological importance of mangroves. They planted and measured two mangrove species within a designated study plot, gaining hands-on experience in field research and environmental restoration.
Cultural immersion was equally central to the journey. Students practiced Spanish daily as they visited local markets, interacted with community members, and navigated purchases using Costa Rica’s local currency, the colón. They participated in a city tour of downtown San Jose and visited the tourism police to learn about public safety, civic structure, and the country’s approach to welcoming visitors.
A meaningful highlight of the trip was visiting the Boruca Indigenous Reserve, where students learned about Boruca traditions, beliefs, and history. They created traditional masks inspired by ancestral designs. The group also explored Costa Rica’s cloud forest, visited Poás Volcano, and learned about the cultivation and processing of chocolate.
The trip blended science, service, language learning, and cultural exploration into a transformative educational experience. ¡PURA VIDA!
