Name: Ruthanne Martin
Hometown: Katy, Texas
Occupation: Student
Course name/year: Girl Scout Destinations Service Challenge #2 July 2016

1. What made you chose to do an Outward Bound Costa Rica course?

I chose to do an Outward Bound Costa Rica course because I wanted to travel out of my comfort zone. I really wanted to embark on an adventure, and Outward Bound courses seemed full of adventure. The amazing culture of Costa Rica also sparked my interest and led me to apply for the Service Challenge course.

2. What is your favorite memory from your course?

I have so many memories from my OBCR trip this summer. One of my favorites was a small moment, yet it holds a huge place in my memory and heart. It was the day we arrived in the village we were staying in. We had spent the entire day in the car, then a boat, next a trailer made for bananas, then a canoe ride over a river, and finally a short hike through the village to the tiny school we were sleeping at and helping. It was pouring rain when we arrived, yet we started a game of soccer with the village kids. The game was full of mud, dirt, rain, smiles, and a ton of laughter. Everyone was so happy and just showed true happiness their face. Our soccer game turned into a mix of rugby, soccer, and football and we basically ended up in a dog pile. That game will forever be special to me because they taught me the true meaning of happiness. Happiness isn’t based on how good you smell, how nice you look, how much money you make, or where you grow up. Happiness is being truly joyful with where you live and who you are. These kiddos live in shacks, yet they are more happy than I ever was. This memory taught me to be happy and appreciative of what I have and to overall just live my life to the fullest. These village kids taught me what happiness is through one game of soccer and for that I will be forever grateful.

3. What did you learn on course that is still relevant in your life today?

I learned so many wonderful things on this trip. I learned to live in the moment, and not dwell on the past or over focus on the future. I also discovered that I should live every moment to the fullest. While I was in the village, I saw the way the people lived and earned money and it made me appreciate what I have and my family so much. I realized how unappreciative I’ve been before the trip. The instructors also taught me many life lessons about following your
heart and treating others with love and respect. The instructors constantly gave our group lessons about Costa Rica culture, environment, and people in general. These small lessons about the country help me educate friends and family about the amazing country I spent 2 weeks in, and the life lessons will always be with me.

4. What are you up to in your life right now?

I am currently involved in volunteering with my church. I also am a competitive cheerleader and school cheerleader, so that keeps me busy. I’m trying to spend more time with my family, and learn to cook good food like they have
in Costa Rica. I’m extremely interested in going on a mission trip to Haiti and coming back to Outward Bound Costa Rica next summer.

5. Did Outward Bound have an impact on your life path? If yes, how so?

My Outward Bound trip had a great impact on my life. I realized how much I enjoy adventure and traveling out of the country. Since this trip, I’ve decided that I want to go back to Outward Bound Costa Rica again next summer for even longer. I also realized that I can do anything I want with my life and future. It made me dream bigger than I had ever before. The course showed me I can do anything I put my mind and heart to. For example, my big dream is to be a teacher or doctor for an indigenous community in Costa Rica. This trip helped me discover my sense of adventure and my dream for my future.

6. What brought you to Costa Rica?

This was my first time in Costa Rica, but I will definitely be coming back for longer next summer. I absolutely loved the food, music, culture, environment, and “Pura Vida” lifestyles. The animal and plant life throughout the entire country is phenomenal. They also have so many yummy fruits to try. The animals in this region are so amazing as well. While in Panama, we got to release baby sea turtles! I loved the people of the indigenous area so much, because they were so welcoming and friendly. I will definitely come back to Costa Rica next summer because this countries people, culture, and environment… have stolen my heart.

7. Would you recommend Outward Bound Costa Rica to teens?

I would absolutely recommend an OBCR trip to any teen. It may seem scary at first, but I promise you will have the time of your life and come back with a new perspective on the world. The instructors and staff are so friendly, kind, and knowledgeable. The country as a whole is just beautiful, and the adventure you will have is amazing. Most teens never get the opportunity to travel to a unique country like Costa Rica, which is a shame, because it changes your view on the world. Teens of any type would benefit from an OBCR course!

8. What advice do you have for students who are considering doing a course with Outward Bound?

Don’t be afraid. It may seem scary at first, but I promise you will not regret signing up. I encourage you to sign up and go with a completely open mind. Be ready for a wonderful, challenging, life changing trip. Don’t regret not doing it, sign up!

Ruthanne helps Outward Bound Costa Rica by sharing the word with other Girl Scouts and students interested in international programs. If you want to be our next alumni ambassador and let other people know about your experience at Outward Bound Costa Rica, fill our alumni ambassador form.