LearnServe Global Costa 2026 Student Reflections

Following a week-and-a-half of service and cultural exchange with young changemakers in Costa Rica, the U.S.-based LearnServe Global Costa Rica 2026 participants reflected on their experiences.

Eimer 

Being in Limon, it opened my mind to learn more about Afro Latino communities and how they are related to the Afro community. It taught me a lot about the food and culture and the connection to the Caribbean. The culture seems very expressive, there is a lot of dancing and singing and emotional expressiveness in their community. I noticed that some Afro Latino communities are less appreciated facing a lack of resources compared to urban communities. I think there should be more equity in educational resources and that connects to my project because I am focused on the equity of public schools in Guatemala. 

“I think there should be more equity in educational resources and that connects to my project because I am focused on the equity of public schools in Guatemala.”

Michele

A moment in Costa Rica that I’ll always remember is the time we went to the lunchtime food pantry in Limón and played with kids. Just with a simple meme it can really excite kids and take away their worries for a moment. It taught me how much I enjoy working with kids and confirmed that I want it to be part of my career. 

“It taught me how much I enjoy working with kids and confirmed that I want it to be part of my career.”

Kailyn

Being in Bataan with Dale Una Mano, when we had the cookout, showed me how much of a community they are. The energy felt very alive and gave the vibe that you can be yourself and they would hype you up without judgment. It really showed me how friendly the Costa Rican community is, even our driver Don Piedra was always smiling and saying hi to people. In DC, and especially with political issues like lack of trust due to ICE invasions and police brutality, it would be nice to create more of a community where people can be safe in DC. 

“It would be nice to create more of a community wehre people can be safe in DC”

David

This trip to Costa Rica taught me to enjoy life and try new things. I got to try new foods like queso palmito and Costa Rican empanadas. Now, as I go home, I’ll always remember to keep my head up and stay positive.

“I’ll always remember to keep my head up and stay positive.”