By Brooklyn W, High School Abroad Costa Rica Summer 2025
Greenheart Travel believes that travel changes us for the better. It challenges us and gives us more insight and mutual understanding. That’s why, every year, Greenheart Travel offers First Time Traveler scholarships so that more people have the opportunity to travel. We recently heard from Brooklyn who received a scholarship to Greenheart Travel’s High School Summer Exchange in Costa Rica. Keep reading to hear about what she learned during her time in Costa Rica!
Introduction
Throughout my life, I’ve always been big on setting goals. When I put my mind to something, I’m determined to see it through, no matter what challenges come my way. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the encouragement and support of the people around me, family, friends and mentors who have believed in me even when I doubted myself. They’ve helped shape the person I am today.
Recently, the biggest goal I have been thinking about is learning Spanish fluently. My mother’s side of the family has Mexican heritage and I’ve always wanted to connect further with it. While I learned some Spanish growing up, it was so little and I wasn’t confident in my comprehension or speaking. I went to my mom for help, wondering what was the fastest way I could learn Spanish. After my mom did so so so much research (thank you) we decided immersing yourself in the language would not only be the fastest way, but it’s also such a unique experience. With the help of the Greenheart Travel Summer High School Exchange program I was going to stay with a family in Costa Rica!
Before the Adventure Began
I’m a huge worry wart, so I made sure I wasn’t jumping into the unknown without preparation. I got to know my host family and learned what my daily life would be like. I was confident and excited, but I also knew this would stretch me beyond what I have experienced before. After all, this is the longest time I’ve been away from home! Despite all the planning, nothing truly prepares you for the ways you grow when you immerse yourself in a new culture, not just by adapting, but discovering hidden strengths that only come out when you’re pushed outside your comfort zone.
Learning to Flow with Change
Once I arrived I knew that flexibility and adaptability were going to be key. Everyday brought new challenges, whether it was navigating conversations in Spanish, learning cultural customs that were different from my own, or adjusting to the slower pace of life. Something that has held me back from wanting to be an exchange student was making mistakes. I was so embarrassed of making mistakes that I was too afraid to want to put myself out there. After coming to Costa Rica I’ve gotten better at realizing it wasn’t about being perfect or having all the answers, but about enjoying and embracing this experience!
Facing Doubts
Of course, there were moments when I was unsure, nervous or was feeling discouraged. Times when language felt like a wall I couldn’t climb, or days when I missed the familiar comfort of home. All of these feelings are normal and completely okay. What got me through it was reaching out for help when I needed it, whether that was the people surrounding me or friends back home. Resilience isn’t about pushing through alone, it’s about knowing when to lean on others and allowing that to help you grow.
Connections
What surprised me most wasn’t just learning Spanish, but the genuine connections and friendships I built along the way. Sure, me speaking the language helped start conversations but what really brought us together was the time we had together, the everyday experiences that don’t always need words.
Conclusion
Looking back, this journey became so much more than just learning Spanish or ticking off a goal. Honestly, everyone is always preparing you for going into your homestay, but never for leaving. My host family welcomed me with open arms and truly made me feel like I belonged from day one. Their kindness wasn’t just in the words or food they shared but the little everyday moments, the laughter around the dinner table and the patience and helpfulness when I had trouble with words. Because of them, a place so far from home started to feel like a second home. Making new friendships and connecting with new people is truly one of the best parts.
If you’ve ever thought about doing an exchange or stepping outside your comfort zone, I hope this story encourages you to take that leap. It’s not always easy, and there will be moments of doubt, but those moments are what make the experience so meaningful. The friendships, the discoveries, and the personal growth is worth every step.
Sometimes, the best adventures come from stepping outside your comfort zone, and in doing so, we find a new version of ourselves we’re proud to meet. Here’s to embracing change, making memories, and living life fully, pura vida.
Thank you, Brooklyn, for sharing your first-hand experience and showing us all there is to discover when we are brave enough to step outside of our comfort zone!
Are you ready to see what is waiting for you outside of your comfort zone? Click on these links to learn more about Greenheart’s High School Abroad programs and scholarship opportunities.
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