Costa Rica Chronicles: A Journey Through The Rich Coast with St. Lawrence College
Touchdown San Jose:
Following the serpentine swirls of cotton-candy clouds beneath the airplane, I found brand-new scenery unfurl – San Jose, the vibrant heartland of Costa Rica, our first stop in the St. Lawrence College course, a joint venture with Global Skill Opportunity and the Government of Canada. As we immersed ourselves among the locals, we found the city pulsating with life, from the humming central markets to the opulent theatres seasoned with centuries of culture.
The grounds of Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) are both expansive and inviting, offering a blend of natural beauty and academic purpose. Situated in San José, the university is surrounded by lush greenery that provides a serene backdrop for students and faculty alike.
The campus features well-maintained gardens, trees, and open spaces that promote both study and leisure. Numerous buildings house various faculties, each with architecture that reflects a mix of modern design and traditional elements.
Walking through the grounds, one may encounter art installations and sculptures that add an element of cultural significance to the environment. Popular meeting spots include outdoor patios and benches, where students connect between classes.
The university places a strong emphasis on sustainability, evident in its efforts to maintain green spaces and promote eco-friendly practices. Overall, the grounds of Universidad de Costa Rica foster an environment conducive to academic growth while encouraging a sense of community among its diverse student body.
The soul of San Carlos / TEC University:
Our journey then led us to San Carlos, a region steeped in agriculture and stunning landscapes. The verdant pastures dotted with cattle and the scenic beauty of San Carlos River added to the surreal beauty of this region. The combination of traditional Costa Rican cuisine and the region’s pristine natural beauty proved to be a feast for all the senses.
TEC University:
TEC University, also known as Tecnológico de Costa Rica (TEC), is a prestigious public university located in San Carlos, Costa Rica. It is one of the leading universities in Costa Rica, recognized for its excellence in science and research, technology and engineering fields.
Sustainability plays a key role in TEC University's mission and curriculum, as it strives to educate students not just acadically, but ethically and environmentally as well. The university achieves sustainability in several ways.
1. Environmentally-Friendly Campus: The university is strongly committed to maintaining an environmentally-friendly campus. For example, they work to conserve energy, reduce waste and promote recycling.
2. Sustainability in Curriculum: The university incorporates sustainability concepts and practices into their curriculum across various fields of study. They are committed to fostering an understanding and respect for the environment among their students.
3. Research: The university participates in research initiatives aimed at discovering and implementing sustainable technologies and practices.
4. Community Involvement: The university engages with the local community, partnering on sustainability projects, providing education on environmental conservation, and supporting initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable living.
5. Green Buildings: TEC University not only promotes sustainability, but they also practice it via their infrastructure. Their buildings are constructed with green technologies, ensuring they are energy efficient and reduce carbon footprint as much as possible.
By placing an emphasis on sustainability, TEC University is shaping a generation of students who are informed about environmental issues and motivated to contribute to a more sustainable future.
The fiery La Fortuna:
Next, we journeyed towards an architect adorning Mother Nature's canvas - the Arenal Volcano enveloping La Fortuna. We also took the plunge into the cascading La Fortuna Waterfall, the crown jewel, where the cool waters kissed away the tropical heat.
The spirit of Sarapiqui:
Sarapiqui, the beating heart of Costa Rica’s ecological crusade, was an educative sojourn on our itinerary. This wildlife-rich region offered a well-rounded experience through its ever-vibrant rainforest excursions, and it is a beacon calling for eco-conscious travelers worldwide.
The frost-kissed Monte Verde:
The climax of our adventure led us to the cloud-kissed terrains of Monte Verde. Parting the misty curtains of clouds, we stepped into a realm that defied the very tropical essence of Costa Rica. This was a world where frost-kissed orchids bloom, a place that owed its cool temperatures to altitudes soaring over 4,662 feet above sea level, and its proximity to both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve uniquely experiences an eternal spring, thanks to its altitudinal variances and the convergence of numerous ecological factors.
Final Thoughts:
As we concluded this extraordinary journey, I found myself profoundly moved by Costa Rica's iridescent diversity. This journey has not only broadened our experiences as students of St. Lawrence College but also emphasized the importance of eco-conscious travel and understanding distinct cultures. A magnificent symphony of adventures, lessons, and passions, Costa Rica surely holds an unforgettable experience at every sunset—awaiting global citizens to unfold it. The verse of Robert Frost echoed in my ears - "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference". Indeed, Costa Rica has been that less-traveled road, and its difference has stirred something deep within me.
