By: Howard Schrager, 8th Grade Teacher, Santa Cruz, CA Waldorf School

"Thank you for leading us on our adventure in Costa Rica . From the minute you met us at the airport I knew that we were in good hands. Your self-discipline, enthusiasm, love for the culture, organization and ability to meet this age (14) child with firmness , insight, humor and goodwill, made the trip everything and more than I could have hoped for. For some it was tremendously enriching; for others, it was transformative. The group really became galvanized in the course of the 9 days. The trip itself was very well thought out, with the first part keeping us moving through all kinds of experiences. Even the biggest sleepyheads managed to get packed and onto the bus by 7AM. each day. This seemingly very small aspect was actually quite large for several of the children, and is but one incidence of opportunities for growth built into the trip. Another was having to downsize their packs in order to do the hike in to Punta Mona, having to decide what they really needed, and what they didn't. It was a gift to be introduced to Costa Rican culture through such activities as cooking, dancing and visits to the botanical gardens. The more physically challenging, yet safely organized activities such as rafting, horseback riding and canopy tour, helped the children to confront fears and to take on challenges which built their confidence. The social aspects of the trip were very healthy. Feelings could be explored among them in a way not really possible in a classroom setting. Evening talk circles set the tenor for communication.

Our hike to Punta Mona was a real highlight, too. The days there were spacious, and gave the children a chance to relax and to experience themselves in relation to the group. Even the major storm that struck was a gift, forcing us to confront our prejudice that rain is not desireable on a trip. It was beautiful. They also valued their encounters with volunteers on the farm as well as with local people. They really appreciated the opportunity to use the Spanish they have been studying all these years in the classroom. Relating to you two was a very important part of the trip for them as well as for the adults. I really appreciated how well we all worked together, how open you were to our needs and suggestions, weaving them into the program.."

Gracias por todos, amigos, Love, Howard.

“Arriesgarse y llegar a tu limite vale la pena con AUSun.”
– Mariela Murillo (15), British School Costa Rica, OSA III 04

“I, personally, am a very closed-minded person who has trouble being in new situations, but on our trip I felt extraordinarily happy with what we accomplished on a daily basis.”
– Anonymous on an OSA Program

“After my trip with AUSun, I feel I have gained a better perspective of the world, and my own life. I also appreciate the outdoors and wildlife much more.”
– Becky Harnick (16), SIDWELL FRIENDS Summer Program

“It was a great experience that I am glad I’ve done. I would definitely do it again.”
– Eli Borek (15), SIDWELL FRIENDS Summer Program

“Everyone should do this trip because it is a great experience and will meet cool, new people.”
– Anonymous, SIDWELL FRIENDS Summer Program

“I have definitely changed after my trip with AUSun. I learned how to get over fears, and get along with all types of people! I also loved the white water rafting. Tons of FUN!”
– Megan Reid (15), SIDWELL FRIENDS Summer Program

“En este viaje [OSA I 01] aprendí, o mas bien, me di cuenta que si yo quiero hacer algo, yo puedo, por mas difícil que sea.”
– Mariana Guzmán, Colegio Monterrey Costa Rica, OSA I 01

“I had an excellent time during the trip. Now I like mountains and beaches equally. I used to prefer the beach and I found out that I really like hiking and surfing, and other challenging activities – kayaking, etc! I fell like I really challenged myself, and I’m satisfied with everything I accomplished. I would LOVE to do it again.”
– Marianne Silva (15), Country Day School Costa Rica, PN I 01

“Este viaje me cambio; me ayudo a abrirme mas y conocer mejor a todos sin juzgar a nadie por nada.”
– Edgardo Polini (17), Colegio ILPPAL Costa Rica, PN I 01

“I now have more confidence in myself. I want to do more exercise and improve myself. I learned that I can to things if I tell myself I can.”
– Federico Ortiz (15), Lincoln School Costa Rica, PN I 01