What I appreciate…

This last and final blog has been by far the most challenging. For the last several weeks, I have been hemming and hawing over what I should write about, and how I could deliver an exit as good, if not better, than my entry!

So, with all of my might, I have been trying to think of ways to discuss what I value, without sounding cheesy or cliché. I wanted to avoid speaking about superficial things we have in Canada that Costa Ricans just don’t have (like Doritos or Fruit and Nut bars, which by the way, I really really miss!). The truth is, Costa Rica is a really easy place to travel, and from what I gather from the amount of ex-patriots that have shacked up here, it is also an easy place to live.

So I have come to realize that my greatest appreciation is not something I have been deprived of (well, other than my boyfriend, Michael… I have a new found appreciation for him!). My biggest appreciation has been by far, just having the opportunity to be here; to work with locals; and work on a second language. I am so appreciative to Larissa and Natasha for giving me the chance to explore the skills I have only recently learned I had. I am also appreciative to Michelle Szabo for speaking the kind words that helped me get this gig!

Since being in Costa Rica, I have learned how to directly work with wildlife; how to navigate research; how to develop community profiles; and how to write and edit funding proposals. I have also (on my own), developed an environmental education pilot program framework, along with an activity guidebook for teachers. This learning experience has allowed me to embrace my ability to be versatile in a way I would never have expected. Looking back to where I was a year ago (working 16 hours a day in the kitchen), I can only be proud for how much I have grown.

Although there had been some bumpy patches along the way, I have realized that it is these times that are really character building (okay, I lied, I am all for the cheese and clichés!). If it weren’t for moments of frustration I wouldn’t have really put as much thought into my education goals, and might have ended up taking a path I may regret in the future. Recently, inspired by these experiences and tough times, I have even changed the direction of my degree. My internship has given me insights, which my last three years of University has failed to do. My international work has given me real practical experience, which theory and discussion simply cannot encompass.

So, in conclusion, I will once again thank YIIP for making this experience possible; for helping my build on my skills as well as my confidence; and for providing an all encompassing support system. For all my years of complaining about how our University is a factory; how students are just a number (hmmm, maybe more like monetary amount); and how not one of my professors knows my name… the York International Internship Program helps to make up for that in a serious way. It is my goal to return the favour, and encourage students to apply. Hey, I will yell it in the streets if I have to!