My time in Costa Rica has finally come to an end as I head back to the United States today. These past three months have flown by and studying abroad in Costa Rica has been a wild ride. There have definitely been some ups and downs. I have had moments where I felt like I was on top of the world and living the dream and then I have had days where all I wanted was my own bed. Through my journey, I have learned so much about myself. Here are top three things I learned.
1—I am stronger than I think I am. I have had some of the most memorable moments of my life in Costa Rica but that doesn’t mean my whole trip was pure bliss. I definitely had my share of B.S. moments where all I wanted to do was peace out and slap some people silly. Those times were bad. Real bad. But guys, I made it! I persevered through the crap. I didn’t let stupid moments or people stop me for fully appreciating where I was and what I was experiencing. I learned how to conduct myself in messy situations, confront people, and honestly be a straight up boss.
2—I am fiercely independent. I’ve always known how independent I am, but being in Costa Rica basically confirmed that fact for me. I came to a different country by myself not knowing anyone and not knowing Spanish at all. I threw myself into a situation that many of my peers wouldn’t dare try because I wanted an adventure. I took a path less taken because I didn’t want to follow the status quo. Navigating my life here has made me more independent and mature. There were many times where I didn’t have friends or my host family around me and I had no choice but to figure things out on my own. If I’m capable of being independent here, I am capable of being independent anywhere.
3—I am a risk taker. In life, in order to live the life you truly want, you have to take risks. While I was here, I said yes to every opportunity that was presented to me without much thought. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that you should throw logic out the window, but what I am saying is that some of the best opportunities in life require you to be a risk taker. Coming to Costa Rica my senior year of college was a huge risk for me but I wouldn’t change my decision to come here for anything.
Are there any lessons you’ve learned from trips you have taken? Let us know in the comments below!
