Cassandra Gates

Cassandra Gates traveled and was immersed in the culture of Costa Rica for five weeks. While there, she lived with her Mama Tica (host mom).  Through her classes and experiences, she was able to speak Spanish, which was crucial to her experience in the immersion of the culture. She indulged in the cultural dishes and learned how to prepare arroz con leche and gallo pinto (rice pudding and rice with beans). In addition to her intensive Spanish class, she was enrolled in an environment and sustainable development class. Through the environmental class, she developed a greater passion for the environment and learned the important role environmental sustainability plays in Costa Rica and how to maintain sustainability throughout the world. She experienced sustainability and development first hand during class field trips to national parks and sustainable living communities. Cassie learned the environment is very important to Costa Ricans and they take pride in preserving it. During the weekdays, Cassie took classes and explored the downtown San Jose area. During the weekends, she traveled the country to explore the different parts and the biodiversity of such a small country. What struck her the most, was how proud and patriotic Costa Ricans are and how passionately they exclaim their unofficial national saying,” Pura Vida!” Cassie felt that her experience had a huge impact on her. She wants to educate others about her experience and hopes to inspire others to travel internationally. Since her return, she has spoken to other woman on her campus about her experience and encouraging those eligible to apply for the Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership.