Be World Ready’s Costa Rica – Pura Vida international field study was led by NC Associate Dean of the School of Environment & Horticulture, Evan DiValentino, and Professor in NC’s School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Sport, Agnes Nowaczek. Our Costa Rica trip involved students in a range of activities. Through visits to San Jose, the Paos Volcano National Park, and the Punta Leona Forest, students had the chance to learn and reflect on Costa Rica’s dedication to the planet. Students also attended a series of lectures, discussing key topics such as Blue Zones, Sustainable Tourism, Regenerative Development, Renewable Energies, and Zero Carbon Technologies. Students visited the impoverished neighborhood of La Carpio and donated essential items to the families who live there. Our Costa Rica group also experienced the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Centre, live marimba music with folkloric dancing, and several traditional Costa Rican dinners.

This video was made by a student of the Marine Biology and Tropical Ecology Study Abroad trip in January 2009 for University of West Florida, great trip!