Marianna Cosentino

School for Field Studies – Sustainable Development Studies – Atenas, Costa Rica (fall 2013)

Hola, my name is Mary Cosentino. I am a junior here at Ramapo majoring in environmental studies, and minoring in public policy as well as working toward a business essential certificate. During the fall of 2013 I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study abroad in Atenas, Costa Rica. When looking at the different study abroad programs, SFS Costa Rica seemed to be the perfect fit for both my major as well as for me, and sure enough it was. Living on a farm with a small group of like-minded people was an amazing experience; I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The beautiful places that we visited, the intense research that was conducted, and the group of students that I was lucky enough to be with made my trip so much more special. Costa Rica, although small, has so much to offer. From the breath-taking beaches to the vast rainforests, there wasn’t a part that I didn’t enjoy. Studying sustainability and the environment felt so right there, I learned what it was like to work as a team in the field collecting meaningful data. My time there will always be remembered and cherished. I learned so much about myself, as well as the field that I am studying in; it is an experience that will never be forgotten. Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity that should be taken advantage of, and that is why I became a Global Roadrunner to share my experiences, as well as encourage my fellow students to take these adventures and make the most of their time here. Pura vida!