Prologue

Most people are aware of the fact that ever since I was in the 7th grade I have wanted to study abroad. That year we were trapped inside due to the pandemic and all i wanted to do was travel. For a while it was between Spain, Costa Rica, and Argentina, for various reasons Costa Rica seemed like the right choice. Moving my departure date from the beginning of my Junior year to the middle of my Sophomore year was a spur of the moment decision that resulted in a hastily submitted application and soon an acceptance to study abroad in Costa Rica with the American Field Service (AFS). In early December I was placed with a host family who ended up not being able to host, last Friday however as I was saying goodbye to many friends for 10 months I received an email informing me that yes in fact I would be leaving on February 23rd. AFS had placed me in a smaller suburb near San José called Tres Rios or Three Rivers in english. Being from Pittsburgh where we are surrounded by three rivers, it seems as though everything has happened for a reason and this is where I am meant to be. My family and I will fly to Miami this Thursday then a day later I will fly into San José to begin my 10 month long program.

The red pin points to Tres Rios which is where I will be staying.