Spending two weeks in Costa Rica was nothing short of life-changing. Each day brought a new adventure, hiking through national parks, relaxing at the hot springs near the Arenal volcano, visiting the stunning beach at Manuel Antonio, and watching the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Being surrounded by all these ecosystems deepened my understanding of and appreciation for the importance of conservation.

Another highlight was our work in wildlife refuges, where we got hands-on experience caring for rescued animals. We built habitats, prepared specialized diets, and created enrichment activities to support their rehabilitation. These experiences showed me just how committed Costa Rica is to protecting its biodiversity. We learned about biological corridors which are pathways that connect fragmented habitats allowing animals to move safely across regions and thrive in the wild in different parts of the country avoiding human interaction.

We also discovered that in Costa Rica, it’s illegal to own endemic wildlife as pets. Many of the animals we worked with had been rescued from illegal captivity. It was heartbreaking to hear their stories, but inspiring to see their recovery. We learned so much about sloths, kinkajous, parrots, and other native species. Their behavior plays a key role in determining whether they’re ready to be released back into the wild. Sometimes, just watching how they climb, forage, or interact can be the ticket to their freedom. I deeply admire the dedication of the refuge teams. Every animal is given a second chance at life; a real opportunity to return to the wild and live the life they were meant for.

This study abroad trip was so much more than just traveling. It reminded me why conservation matters and how every species plays a vital role in its ecosystem. More importantly, it resparked something in me; something I had lost sight of. I always wanted to be involved with wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, and I was given that opportunity.

Another powerful aspect of the trip was the people. Our guide, Anamaria who made history as the first woman to become a tour guide in Costa Rica; shared so much about the country’s culture, history, and environmental efforts. Her passion and knowledge gave deeper meaning to every experience. Our bus driver, Edwin, spoke only Spanish, which encouraged the group to embrace the language and culture. As a native Spanish speaker, I enjoyed translating and helping bridge that gap. It made me feel even more connected to the group and the people we met along the way. Along the journey, we also picked up meaningful words and phrases that are part of Costa Rican culture none more important than “Pura Vida.” It’s more than just a saying; it’s a way of life. It means “pure life,” but it represents joy, gratitude, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the present moment.

Though I only knew Professor Riggs when the trip began, I left with new friends, unforgettable memories, and a clearer sense of purpose. I’ll always be grateful for this opportunity, not just for the academic growth, but for the personal healing it offered. I’ve always wanted to work more closely with wildlife, but somewhere along the way, I lost that focus. This experience brought me back to it.
Costa Rica fue PURA VIDA.

– Nicole , SPC Costa Rica Vet Tech Study Abroad Program, July 2025