Today we bid farewell to our Fall 2015 Outdoor Leader Semester Students. The group of five spent 65 days with us, earning international certifications and gaining real-world leadership training while exploring Costa Rica and Panama. From scuba diving coral reefs in Bocas del Toro, to braving white water rapids on world-class rivers to hiking to the remote village of Piedras Blancas in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, the students pushed their limits with unique adventure activities. “Scuba was definitely my favorite because it was a strong reinforcement that I would enjoy working as a scuba instructor,” said A.J. G. from Alexandria, Virginia For Evan P. of Charleston, South Carolina, the biggest highlight from course was surfing in Playa Avellanas. “It helped secure my ideas of being an instructor,” he said. The homestays on the hike were a highlight for many of the students. “I think [my favorite part] would be the homestays,” said Kirby N. from Arlington, Virginia. “It made me realize that simple living is the best kind and it made me aware of all the effort those families put into their lives to be sustainable.” “I learned about Costa Rican culture and I learned that I want to live a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Meaghan G. of West Tisbury, Massachussets. “The hike, specifically the homestays [were my favorite part of course], because the people were so nice and welcoming,” said Ben W. from Fairfax, Virginia. In addition to gaining leadership skills and technical certifications, the students learned much about themselves on course. “You have more in you than you think,” said Meaghan G. “I learned more about my leadership style and more about the career I want to pursue.” “This course helped me grow as a person,” added Evan P. “It’s an awesome course.” “There is more in me than I think,” added A.J. G. “I have gained so much insight to myself and life on this course,” said Kirby N. “More than in the past three years of my life.” We wish all our students the best of luck in all their future endeavors. Be sure to visit our Facebook page  to see photos from their course experience.