[box] The following is a pre-departure post from an Elon student now studying abroad in Costa Rica. [/box]

I remember starting to countdown with 134 days until Costa Rica! And now it’s just five!

I have a healthy mix of emotions when I think about the next few months. One of my aspirations is to be in the Peace Corps after graduation, which requires open-mindedness, flexibility and full immersion in another culture. I feel like I was born ready to meet new people and try new things - that is just my personality! On the other hand, I really do not travel very much, so Costa Rica for the spring semester (and the summer) is going to be a completely new experience for me.

I think what I’m looking forward to the most is the anticipation of the unknown. I have no expectations other than just being flexible and open minded to the culture and unique experiences I get to have. Also, I’ve been taking Spanish since eighth grade and absolutely love it, but I’ve never become what I would consider fluent. My expectation is that it will only take a few days before that changes.

I am also really excited about my host family. It will be so strange but absolutely wonderful to have my host mom always washing my clothes, making my bed and cooking for me. I think my best friend (outside of Elon students) will be my little sister, Tamara. I think we’ll hang out a lot, sing Bieber songs, play games and have a blast. I really want to get to know my 14 year-old brother, too. I’ve heard from both of the girls that have stayed with my family that it may be unlikely that he’ll initiate a connection. I don’t want to scare him, but I do want to be his best friend. We’ll see!

I’ve heard lots of stories about epic adventures! Anywhere from jumping off waterfalls, being ripped off for being Americans, how every host family is different, how absolutely delicious the four o’clock coffee is and mixed reviews about the professors and teaching styles that I will adopt. The overall theme of the exciting advice, though, has been to be smart, be safe and be prepared to make my own adventures!

[box] Keep checking the International Blog for posts from students abroad throughout the semester. [/box]