In my previous two blogs I have included how I plan to return to Costa Rica. In my next trip I will make sure to include working and volunteering my time at La Bella Tica Farm again. It was a rewarding experience to be able to learn the first processes that go into getting that delicious cup of coffee that many people enjoy. I think that with any product that people enjoy it should be encouraged to know how that product is first processed. Even better if you have the time and find a place that will allow you to do those first initial steps in person. More so because we hardly get to see or experience how for example coffee is harvested and made, or how cocoa is made into savory chocolate. I think that if we have the opportunity to do the work that goes into the everyday products that we use, we will find a greater appreciation for them. More appreciation for the things we consume or buy will help us be less wasteful and more conscious of our intake.
Furthermore, I also enjoyed going through the partner organizations IVHQ and Maximo Nivel who help program part of our trip. Their employees also made us feel at home with their enthusiasm and helpfulness during our stay in Costa Rica. It even encouraged me to consider a post-graduation job with them or a program similar to them. I was raised being bilingual in Spanish and English and one of my goals is to find a career where I can utilize both of those languages and if possible learn a few more. Working at programs such as the organizations mentioned above seems like a perfect place for me because of the exciting environment of being able to construct programs and help others in their community service journeys. As well as, being able to travel and experience other beautiful places. For instance the programs above have other destinations to work at, specifically in Latin America, and I would love to immerse myself more in Latin Culture while also helping others.
We will see where the next few months take me as I complete my last bitter sweet semester at MSU and find my passion and my place.
Brenda Torres Barraza
Senior Global Studies and Spanish Major