Service Learning in Costa Rica
by Hannah Borland ‘22
Each year over spring break, MSC Freshman Leadership International gives freshman and student leaders from all over campus the opportunity to serve others in a new way while learning about the culture of Costa Rica. The team of students that goes on this service-learning trip is selected from the membership of all Freshman Leadership Organizations on campus, and before they even leave Aggieland, the team is preparing to make an impact. In the weeks leading up to the big trip, the students attend meetings where they learn about the history and culture of Costa Rica, practice some basic Spanish and plan out a curriculum to teach the local elementary school. While they are in Costa Rica, the team gets to provide assistance to the local community, actually teach their curriculum, and explore the surroundings. This year, the team of students laid the foundation for a new community meeting building and taught children an interactive lesson about the solar system. They also went on guided hikes in the rainforest, ziplined, and took a trip to another small town.
Cash Cooper, a junior international studies major, has been to Costa Rica as part of this program three years in a row. First as a participant, then a student leader and finally travel coordinator. When asked how this experience has impacted him he said, “Not only has it redefined my view of service, but it has also allowed me to make friendships with members of the community that I value deeply.” He also said his experience in Costa Rica inspired him to continue to learn Spanish. Although the cost of the program is a little much for some students there are a few scholarship and loan opportunities available for this unique learning experience.