1 week until Ailing goes to Costa Rica!
A Final Interview as Ailing prepares for takeoff.
We are now one week away from Ailing going on a trip of a lifetime. Check out how Ailing is feeling about heading down to the beautiful Central American country!
Wonderfolk: You leave for Costa Rica in just over one week! How are you feeling about it?
Ailing [A]: It feels unreal! Reality hasn’t settled in yet and I don’t think it will until we are on the plane. I feel very excited, my summer break hasn’t been too interesting and I’m sure going to Costa Rica will be a great refresher. I’m also feeling a little bit overwhelmed with packing, I tend to be someone who overpacks on any trip. Being told we must pack lightly makes me a little stressed, so I’m avoiding packing until I really need to!
Wonderfolk: Have you ever traveled to a place like Costa Rica before? What are some items on your packing list that you had to buy?
A: I think that I’ve traveled to places that are similar. I’ve been to Mexico and Honduras, both of these trips being pretty long ago. I don’t remember much, just beautiful beaches with warm waters and scorching heat! My peers and I have had many chances to talk to our mentors who have previously traveled to Costa Rica, and as a result, I’ve been influenced to buy Crocs. I’ve never been the biggest fan of Crocs but I knew I had to get a pair since everyone claimed it was an essential item! I’ve also been influenced to buy a held-hand fan and tons of bug spray.
Wonderfolk: You had mentioned that this will be your first time traveling away from your family, how are they feeling about you going to Costa Rica?
A: Because my parents work a lot, I rarely get to spend time with them when I’m home. My sister also attends college in Minnesota, so I don’t get to see my immediate family a lot on a normal basis. Based off of this, I’d like to believe that my family will be okay when I’m gone in Costa Rica, but in reality they are definitely worried! It seems like there would be no difference since nobody is ever home regardless of me being away, but of course they have their own concerns as my parents, especially when I’m miles and miles away from home. Of course there are some nerves, but overall they’re excited and wish me the best!
Wonderfolk: What is one goal that you would like to accomplish in Costa Rica?
A: One goal that I would like to accomplish in Costa Rica is to make long-lasting connections/relationships, whether they’re people from my cohort or locals I meet. Going to Costa Rica is such an amazing opportunity, and in those two weeks, I’ll do my best to network and create strong bonds with the people surrounding me! Having these relationships would make my experience in Costa Rica all the more rewarding, create very memorable friendships, and hopefully, leave a lasting impact even after I go home.
