Students Reflect on Transformative Global Learning Trip to Costa Rica
Over March break, 3 LCS students, along with three peers from Toronto school “The Study”, traveled to Gandoca, Costa Rica, as part of our school’s Global Learning Program. The group engaged in activities focused on conservation, sustainability, and community building, including working on an organic cacao farm, assisting at a local school, and patrolling beaches for sea turtle nesting. However, it was the personal moments that left a lasting impact on the students - here are a few of their reflections:
Sophie '25 on Technology and Community:
“While interacting with the local community in Costa Rica, I was struck by how different the culture was from what I’m used to. The pace of life was slower, the sense of community was stronger, and people seemed more connected to one another rather than to technology. One moment that made me think especially differently—and that truly surprised me—was learning that the community we stayed in had only gained access to the internet a few years ago. It was hard to believe, especially coming from a place where the internet is not just a convenience but something we rely on daily for communication, education, work, and even entertainment. This realization gave me a new perspective on how much we take technology for granted and made me reflect on the different ways people around the world live and adapt without the same resources.”
“While interacting with the local community in Costa Rica, I was struck by how different the culture was from what I’m used to. The pace of life was slower, the sense of community was stronger, and people seemed more connected to one another rather than to technology. One moment that made me think especially differently—and that truly surprised me—was learning that the community we stayed in had only gained access to the internet a few years ago. It was hard to believe, especially coming from a place where the internet is not just a convenience but something we rely on daily for communication, education, work, and even entertainment. This realization gave me a new perspective on how much we take technology for granted and made me reflect on the different ways people around the world live and adapt without the same resources.”
Carina '26 on Community Values:
One moment in Costa Rica really showed me how deeply they value community. At a small clinic, it was the nurse’s birthday. Instead of a quick “happy birthday,” the doctor brought out a cake, lit a candle, and everyone—staff and patients alike—paused to celebrate together.
One moment in Costa Rica really showed me how deeply they value community. At a small clinic, it was the nurse’s birthday. Instead of a quick “happy birthday,” the doctor brought out a cake, lit a candle, and everyone—staff and patients alike—paused to celebrate together.
For Costa Ricans, birthdays are a celebration of community. And this sense of togetherness isn’t just found in workplaces; it’s everywhere. Family businesses thrive because everyone contributes. Villages are like extended families. Aunts and cousins aren’t distant relatives—they’re the ones walking kids to school and picking them up when parents are still at work. Life in Costa Rica might not be very luxurious, but it’s rich in connection. This sense of community is something I will forever remember when thinking of this trip.
Harrison on Environmental Stewardship:
During our trip, one of our local guides, Andre, shared how Costa Rica stands as a global leader in government policy and environmental stewardship. The country abolished its military in 1949, dedicates nearly 26% of its land to protected conservation areas, and sources an impressive 98% of its energy from renewable resources—starkly contrasting with Canada’s 17%. Yet, despite these efforts, Costa Rica faces ongoing threats from rising sea levels and deforestation, endangering both its people and wildlife. One moment that left a lasting impression was learning about the villagers of Gandoca, who volunteer every night to patrol the beaches and protect nesting sea turtles—a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to the natural world. It’s a reminder that environmental protection isn’t just about policy—it’s about everyday people taking action, something we can all be inspired to carry forward in our own communities.
During our trip, one of our local guides, Andre, shared how Costa Rica stands as a global leader in government policy and environmental stewardship. The country abolished its military in 1949, dedicates nearly 26% of its land to protected conservation areas, and sources an impressive 98% of its energy from renewable resources—starkly contrasting with Canada’s 17%. Yet, despite these efforts, Costa Rica faces ongoing threats from rising sea levels and deforestation, endangering both its people and wildlife. One moment that left a lasting impression was learning about the villagers of Gandoca, who volunteer every night to patrol the beaches and protect nesting sea turtles—a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to the natural world. It’s a reminder that environmental protection isn’t just about policy—it’s about everyday people taking action, something we can all be inspired to carry forward in our own communities.
Cory on Purpose and Connection:
What we observed in Gandoca is that the villagers live with real purpose and connection; they take great pride in their sustainable practices. The value of conservation and connection are deeply ingrained in their way of life. What we can learn from visiting other cultures is not just how things are done differently but how values are demonstrated through actions. Definitely a great lesson that we espouse regularly here at Lakefield. The inspiration that I’m taking from Costa Rica in many ways reinforces messages and priorities that we often hear here in Chapel - to slow down, be mindful of our environment and to remember the importance of fostering a strong supportive community.
What we observed in Gandoca is that the villagers live with real purpose and connection; they take great pride in their sustainable practices. The value of conservation and connection are deeply ingrained in their way of life. What we can learn from visiting other cultures is not just how things are done differently but how values are demonstrated through actions. Definitely a great lesson that we espouse regularly here at Lakefield. The inspiration that I’m taking from Costa Rica in many ways reinforces messages and priorities that we often hear here in Chapel - to slow down, be mindful of our environment and to remember the importance of fostering a strong supportive community.
Looking Ahead:
Sophie and Carina ended their reflections by encouraging others to consider future LCS Global Learning Trips. “These experiences really change you,” they said, looking forward to the Ondaatje Expedition to Thailand this June.
Sophie and Carina ended their reflections by encouraging others to consider future LCS Global Learning Trips. “These experiences really change you,” they said, looking forward to the Ondaatje Expedition to Thailand this June.
The trip to Costa Rica not only offered valuable insights into sustainability and community but also inspired each student to carry these lessons back home and into their everyday lives.
Pura Vida!
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Lakefield College School is a private, coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9 through 12, located in Lakefield, Ontario, Canada.
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We respectfully acknowledge that Lakefield College School is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations. Lakefield College School respectfully acknowledges that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.
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