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Through the experience, students learned about traditional agricultural businesses that are the backbone of the Costa Rican economy. The group visited Café Britt for an entertaining tour of all aspects of coffee production from seed germination through processing and packaging and finally the many avenues of product marketing. As the people and government of Costa Rica have become more aware of the important role their country plays in preserving the vast biodiversity located within, new business opportunities have developed including wholly self-sustaining organic farming. Students toured one of the first such farms founded by Don Juan, a former teacher and school administrator, who continues to serve as a tour guide to visitors explaining methods he has pioneered in an effort to leave a zero carbon footprint on the Earth. Students also had the opportunity to visit INBioparque, the National Biodiversity Institute of Costa Rica, where they toured the facility observing butterflies, iguanas, sloths, birds, turtles, snakes, orchids, bromeliads, and many more species of wildlife. The General Manager of this not-for-profit organization met with the students to explain their business processes and marketing plans. Students also met with the marketing manager of the Baldi Hot Springs who explained the for-profit business established to attract tourists to the naturally heated and mineral-filled waters fed by the Arenal Volcano. “The biggest benefit of going on the Costa Rica study abroad was being able to experience the culture and environment firsthand. I learned more about this country through this opportunity than I could have ever learned by just sitting in a classroom,” explains senior business major Brooke Bowie. Students also visited two additional volcanic areas and instructional centers in the Paos and Rincon de la Vieja National Parks. Sophomore business major Ciara Johnson added “The landscape that Costa Ricans enjoy on a daily basis is breathtaking. This trip was definitely one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I was able to get a better grasp on the way Costa Ricans conduct business by meeting business professionals, interacting with ticos [native Costa Ricans], and exercising my knowledge of Spanish.” Each student on the study abroad selected a topic to explore as well as learning objectives. Topics included “Differences in Consumer Options,” “Real Estate Market in Costa Rica,” and “EcoTourism.” Dr. Dell Ann Janney, Associate Dean of Experiential Education, stated “Most of the students indicated that this experience truly changed their lives. Students gained an understanding of the economic environment of another country as well as an appreciation for the many luxuries that we take for granted in the United States.” This study abroad was one of numerous courses to travel during the three-week session. “We are so fortunate to have the structure [Culver-Stockton’s unique 12/3 calendar] in place to accommodate these types of learning experiences. Study abroad provides experiential learning at its best,” Janney added. The trip was capped off with a variety of enjoyable recreational activities; the students had the opportunity to zip-line over the tropical jungle canopy, kayak across Lake Arenal, and enjoyed the waters of the hot springs and a waterfall. Article submitted by: Dr. Kim Gaither Photos: 1) C-SC students at Paos Volcano. 2) Jimmy McKee, senior elementary education major, at the Don Juan Organic Farm helping to harvest Cassava roots that were later fried into chips and served to the group. 3) C-SC students preparing to kayak on Lake Arenal. OTHER FEATURED ARTICLES
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