My experience in Costa Rica through uVolunteer goes down as one of the best times of my life. 
Program Volunteer Costa Rica
Project: Volunteer in a Childrens Home/Orphanage in Costa Rica
For my senior year I wanted to do something big. Preparing to turn eighteen and become an adult, I knew it was time to go off on my own and I couldn't think of a better way than to volunteer in another country. I love working with kids and was immediately interested in the Child Care Center in San Ramon.
I had only traveled outside of the U.S. once, accompanied by close family, so the experience that laid ahead of me was unlike any I had ever had before.
Upon arrival in San Ramon, I knew my decision to live in Costa Rica through uVolunteer was one of the best choices I had ever made. My volunteer coordinator was kind beyond belief and the home stay I was set up in was incredible. My host mother, who only spoke Spanish, was very patient with my limited knowledge of the language and a great help in improving my Spanish speaking skills.
Her house was lovely and only minutes walking distance from the town center. I had my own bedroom and all the privacy in the world, although I greatly preferred my host mother's company and loved talking with her outside on the patio.
After settling in, the following Monday I started work at the Child Care Center. The Tias, the women who ran the center, were very kind and welcoming and in no time, the kids became comfortable with the new volunteers. The kids and I played soccer, active running games, board games, drew in coloring books, and did arts and crafts. I had a great time, became really close to the kids, and looked forward to each new work day.
My two week stay included both Christmas and New Years. Although I did miss my family, I had a wonderful holiday season in San Ramon. I spent the morning of Christmas Eve at the Child Care Center and found it very touching to watch all the kids opening presents and enjoying their new toys. I was also included in all of my host family's festivities and felt warmly accepted in their homes.
Early January it was time for me to return home to complete second semester of my senior year. However, in just a short time period, I had become greatly attached to the Tias and children at the Care Center, my host family, and all the friends I had made during my stay, making it difficult for me to leave when the time came.
My experience in Costa Rica through uVolunteer goes down as one of the best times of my life. I fell in love with the country, found the work with the children very rewarding, and I hope to return one day in the near future.
Natalia Bruke
