Here are some pictures to wrap up this blog.

Although much of our learning was done by interacting with Costa Ricans outside of the classroom we still needed a formal gathering space for lectures, discussions, and presentations. We borrowed this classroom from a preK–12th grade school. Our air conditioning was the cross-breeze through the windows and the white floor and ceiling provided sufficient light for the classroom (we generally only used electricity for the projector). 

Outdoor space at the school with covered walkways from one building to another 

We saw iguanas in trees near the road on the way to northern Costa Rica

Traditional Costa Rican art

Nicaraguan cuisine

Chilling on a hammock on an island near Granada, Nicaragua

Intricate Nicaraguan Pottery

Important buildings in Managua, Nicaragua

Walking along Lake Nicaragua

We had the opportunity to meet Ernesto Cardenal, an influential author/artist/priest/political activist.

In Leon, I spent an afternoon with friends touring the numerous colonial churches (I think we saw at least 10).

I have been asked what my favorite experience was in Costa Rica and I'd have to say that it was actually in Nicaragua. We had the opportunity to explore the roof of one of the largest cathedrals in Central America which is in Leon. It was a surreal experience, like walking on holy ground (we actually had to take our shoes off while walking around).

An island in Lake Nicaragua

One of my last empanadas in Costa Rica

My lovely host parents who I stayed with for several weeks

Leaving Costa Rica

Wheaton in Costa Rica was an amazing experience full of joys and challenges that have positively impacted me. My favorite souvenir was the spare house key I had used over the summer that my hosts let me keep, an open invitation to return to the country, culture, and friends that I have grown to cherish.