Considering a gap year program but not sure about an adventure-based course that presents a physical challenge like our Coast to Coast Expedition or Outdoor Leader Semester?
Our Residential Gap Semester could be exactly what you’re looking for. You’ll be diving into science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) topics while traveling around Costa Rica and Panama, using the remote natural environment as your classroom!
Residential isn’t your “normal” Outward Bound course – students enjoy the comforts of a mattress every night (you read that right, no tent camping!) and electronics like phones and laptops are welcome.
Students work through eight STEAM-based modules: Scuba/Snorkel, Tropical Marine Ecology & Biology, Peaceful Resolution, Social Justice & Service, Organic Farming, Culinary Arts & Agriculture, Spanish Language & Latin American Culture, Life Skills, Health & Wellbeing, Wildlife Conservation & Indigenous Art, Volcanology, Sustainable Energy, & Thermal Springs, and Climate Change & Environmental Conservation.
Each module topic is complemented by a combination of research studies, theory teachings, guest lectures, and excursions that will enhance your understanding. You’ll be heading out on day trips to tropical cloud forest or rainforest reserves, turtle nesting sites, and important political and historical locations in Costa Rica. Picture yourself learning from resident naturalists about underwater creatures that inhabit the region and factors contributing to coral depletion, speaking with local leaders on racial dynamics in Central America, and visiting the northwest to discover the land of volcanoes and thermal springs and learn why Costa Rica is a leader in renewable energy.
Students are led by a Residential Coach, a graduate of the Ecological Tourism program at Universidad de Costa Rica, who helps you weave your way through engaging experiences and your own personal discovery of a particular module. We may be a little biased, but she’s an extraordinary leader, teacher and mentor. Read more about her here!
Coming on a Residential Gap Semester with Outward Bound Costa Rica is not just taking part in a gap year trip – it’s so much more than that. You will be challenged, step outside your comfort zone, develop confidence and resilience, learn life skills, discover what you are capable of, and have a lot of fun along the way. You’ll find it’s not just about you, too – it’s about the impact you have on the environment, your surroundings, and the communities we work with.
Plus, dates are flexible, since we understand you may be creating a jam-packed, fun-filled gap year! We’re happy to work with you to tailor the best course of action and ensure you’re here in Costa Rica for the modules you’re most interested in. Send us a note at [email protected] or give us a call at +1 (800) 676-2018.