My project was great. I had it in my mind I would be working with a large group of volunteers on a large community project but what I got was better than I expected. 
Program Volunteer Costa Rica
Project: Volunteer in Building and Constructing Homes in Costa Rica
It turned out I would be working on a single house with family of the future resident.
My project was great. I had it in my mind I would be working with a large group of volunteers on a large community project but what I got was better than I expected. It turned out I would be working on a single house with family of the future resident. I really enjoyed the smaller feel and found it very meaningful and rewarding to be working so close with the family. I knew I was helping to build a house for the family and I felt very much appreciated for my time and efforts. 
As a whole my project and project family were incredible and I could never forget my experiences with them working on the house.
At times the work was easy and slow paced, then at others I just wished the day was over or I could take a break. It was a good mix of tasks and challenges. I did my best to stay busy and I think the family realized that as well, can’t recall how many times I used the phrase “que puedo hacer’. The family recognized my willingness to work and would try and find me tasks whenever I asked. I came to Costa Rica to be a part of a construction project and standing idly seemed like a waste of time and boring. There were times when the language barrier came into play and limited my understanding of what they wanted. Though through simple gestures, some drawing on walls and tables, and repetition I eventually got the main idea of each task they wanted me to do. It definitely helped that they were all so patient and kind when working with me. At no point did I feel disrespected or ignored. I should mention the whole family was wonderful, the father, uncle, son, wife, daughter, even the grandfather who kind of put me on guard because he carried a machete around quite often and had another knife tucked under his belt. I can’t forget the plentiful amount of pets they had to play with either and getting to play with all of them, except for the scrappy little dog that didn’t let anyone close. As a whole my project and project family were incredible and I could never forget my experiences with them working on the house.
While I have been working on a volunteer project a good portion of this trip is also a chance for me to travel and see different parts of the world, with Costa Rica being the first stop. The weekends and Semana Santa were a great chance for me to get out and see what Costa Rica has. I may not have seen all that I want to see of Costa Rica yet, but my expectations have been exceeded and camera filled with pictures. I enjoy the relaxed life style and overall friendliness of the people I have come in contact with. Costa Rica is very diverse as far as landscapes go, lending to a multitude of activities available. I have very much enjoyed seeing the different sites so far and look forward to more in the next few months. The food has also been great. I have eaten a casado or two in each town I have been to. Frescos and the ice cream have been quite the treat that I do not have direct access to back home, but I figured while traveling I had better experience what the different culture has to offer. Some differences I enjoyed include; the extensive use of dirt bikes for travel, guard geese, the fruit choices, the meal choices, hammocks everywhere, the weather is perfect, so many small dogs, and more.
In addition to my project and Costa Rica, living in the dorm house has been an experience of its own. It somewhat reminds me of my college dorm, and mixing with a bunch of random people. At least here the random people are all volunteers so they cannot be that horrible of a person, maybe irritating in a sense, but generally a kind person. The dorm house is awesome, and much more than I expected. It is very pleasant, cozy, and fun. Also it is well maintained and clean which I do appreciate very much. Can’t describe the dorm house without mentioning Dona Isabel and the wonderful meals she prepares for us. She is so kind and sweet, it was wonderful having her around. It somewhat made me feel at home in a way, and that I was well taken care of. That really helped make the stay more enjoyable and that I was safe. The amenities in the house should also be noted, hammocks, television, computer, and a small back yard are wonderful. I really did not expect those or need them, but I sure took advantage of them while staying, I did greatly appreciate them.
I feel fortunate that during my stay I met so many interesting people who were here to volunteer and have a fun time. I may not agree with some decisions or actions taken by others here, but everyone is tolerant and peaceful which creates a nice atmosphere. I do have a few fun stories that I will remember from my stay in the dorm and with the people here. Starting with my arrival and what a series of 24 hours that was. I had slept in the Houston airport the night before and then showed up to greeted very kindly by Marianella. We proceeded to get ice cream, free, awesome, hot nuts with cinnamon, delicious, and let me struggle through Spanish while I adapted to being a giant. All of this occurred while waiting for Jessica, whose flight was delayed and baggage lost. It was a great start to my trip. I have since had other great trips, going to Tamarindo with the other volunteers, La Fortuna, Mt. Arenal, Monteverde, Santa Elena with my brother, Playa Samara solo, Playa Santa Teresa and Mal Pais with the other volunteers and the nightly hanging out in the dorm. I’ve yet to see all that I want but I look forward to visiting more places in Costa Rica. Drinking beer and reading about Bob the Sponge in Spanish was a blast and slightly embarrassing, but very fun. I did not once get lost or turned around in San Ramon, so I think I win.
I really have had a great time here. I was well received by the coordination staff which was great and made me feel right at home. The city of San Ramon was great, not too small, not too big, with everything I needed and conveniently located in Costa Rica when planning weekend trips. I appreciated the professionalism of the uVolunteer staff and how it was managed while being so friendly and caring of the dorm volunteers. Dona Isabel is wonderful and an incredible chef. Thank you all so much for a great month as it is an experience I will not forget.
Aaron Barber
