Each year, the Junior Travel Study Abroad Scholarship provides students the opportunity to travel to and study the language and culture of a Spanish-speaking country or territory. This past summer, our winners traveled to Costa Rica for an unforgettable language and cultural immersion program, hosted by United Planet. Over the course of a week, these young scholars experienced authentic culture, environmental conservation work, and the warm hospitality of Costa Rican families.

Trip at a Glance:

Days 1-2: Arrival and Family Placement

The students arrived at their first destination, Hotel Las Ardillas, after a scenic bus ride through the Costa Rican countryside. Despite the long travel day, spirits remained high as new friendships began to form. After orientation at the hotel, the group embarked on a five-hour journey to Monteverde, where they met their host families. Students were paired with local families who opened their homes and hearts. These connections provided an authentic glimpse into Costa Rican daily life and helped our travels get settled into the country.

Julia, one of our scholarship winners, captured the blend of nerves and warmth she felt upon meeting her host family:

“Aprecié mucho la generosidad de la familia abriendo su casa para mí. Estaba un poco nerviosa en la casa, pero Doña Sonia era muy simpática y paciente. Me sentí bienvenida en la casa mientras todavía recibía espacio para relajarme.”

Day 3: Introduction to Santa Elena Reserve

The next morning brought students their first taste of authentic Costa Rican coffee. After breakfast with their host families, the group explored downtown Monteverde before heading to the Santa Elena Reserve for an introductory tour. Students hiked through the cloud forest and climbed an observation tower, where they were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.

Days 4-5: Volunteer Conservation Work

On day four, the real work began. The heart of the trip involved hands-on conservation work at the Santa Elena Reserve. On the first volunteer day, students transported stones in wheelbarrows from the parking area into the forest—physically demanding work with an important purpose.

Another of our winners, Santiago, reflected on the experience:

“Nuestro trabajo consistió en mover piedras con carretillas y reforzar senderos para mantenerlos en buen estado y que los visitantes pudieran recorrerlos sin dañar el ecosistema. Fue cansador, pero también muy gratificante.”

The second volunteer day brought a different kind of work: installing trail cameras deep in the cloud forest to monitor wildlife. Students hiked through the lush ecosystem, spotting tarantulas, stick insects, and coatis along the way.

David appreciated the change of pace:

 “Me gustó más que lo que hicimos ayer porque era menos trabajo físico, pero más tiempo caminando y mirando el verde del bosque que no puedo experimentar en Las Vegas por ser un desierto.”

Evening Cultural Activities

After the day’s work, students had free time to explore Monteverde’s town center. The evening concluded with a traditional dance class—a favorite memory for many.

Days 6-7: La Fortuna and Natural Wonders

The group traveled to La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano, where they experienced the Baldi Hot Springs—a natural water park featuring thermal pools and spectacular waterfall.

Julia remembered the experience:

“Después de bajar muchas escaleras, por fin vimos la cascada. Nadamos en el agua. El agua estaba fresca , y tenía muchas piedras; me encantó la vista.”

Day 8: Bittersweet Farewell

The final morning brought early wake-up calls and emotional goodbyes as students prepared to return home. The group shared one last breakfast together before heading to the San José airport.

Lasting Impact

Beyond the tourist attractions and volunteer work, it was the human connections that left the deepest impression. Students praised the generosity of their host families, with whom they shared meals and daily life. The success of this summer’s program demonstrates the powerful impact of experiential learning and cultural exchange. Through the generous support of AATSP, the National Spanish Exam, and United Planet, these students didn’t just study a language—they lived it, forging connections across cultures and gaining perspectives that will stay with them for years to come.

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