Village study and family life

Last week the students departed from San José in small groups, each bound for a different village. Students were to conduct an intensive two-day study of the village and local culture, and were responsible to find their way to and from the town, locate a place to stay, and budget for meals, lodging and exploration. Through conversation with local residents, they explore the industry, traditions and festivals, demographics, as well as community educational and medical services.

The unit camera went with Corey, Sara P., Jon L., and Kimberly to the town of Palmares, nestled in the mountains north of San José.

During their investigation, the Palmares group found their way into a public high school, where school personnel invited them to participate in the English class answering student questions related to US culture and college life. This group graciously received an invitation to spend the night at the home of a former SST host mom.

As was true for the Palmares group, students return with tales of unexpected kindness from strangers and with a strong sense of accomplishment at finding their own way.

• Kimberly and Jon L. talking with a teacher in the public school.
• Kimberly and Jon L. talking with students.

Family life

Students spend part of each day and much of the weekend with their families in San José. The family plays a significant role in Costa Rican life and culture, and college-age children are quite often living with their parents in Costa Rica, unlike North America. Students are treated as a daughter or son in the family and participate in many family activities.

• Above, Launa & Alison with Alison’s mother Rosa.
• Kimberly with siblings Julieth, Eddy and Carlos Mario.
  
• E, Sandra, Sarah A.--Sarah A. with mother Sandra and Evan (son of Brent & Launa).