Growth or Comfort

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Yesenia Sosa

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Yesenia Sosa

<i>Home Institution</i>: University of Texas, San Antonio <i>Expected Graduation Year</i>: 2024 <i>Academic Major / Minor</i>: Public Health & Psychology / Biology <i>Destination</i>: San Jose, Costa Rica <i>"Hello" in your host country's language</i>: ¡Hola! <i>Program Provider</i>: AIFS <i>Demographics</i>: Hispanic/Latinx, First-Generation American, First-Generation College Student <i>Future Career Goals</i>: Go to medical school and earn my Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree to become a surgeon, to treat individuals with cardiovascular diseases <i>Top Three Study Abroad Goals</i>: To be more proficient with spanish medical terminology; To learn more about Costa Rica’s healthcare system; To immerse myself into the Costa Rican culture and challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone

Today, Thursday March 30th marks the ending of my study abroad courses. It is also the farewell dinner for the AIFS Program. My last goal was to immerse myself into the Costa Rican culture and challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone. Although my first week was definitely challenging, I am ending this experience by accomplishing that goal. My comfort zone relies on two main things: enjoying a quiet environment, and being an introvert. However, I am always looking for experiences to grow as an individual. Being part of the AIFS Program made me feel welcomed by the onsite coordinators and the friends that I’ve grown to make. Before studying abroad, I was not as confident as I am now. I have grown to appreciate the little things in life such as having conversations with my homestay family. Although this experience is almost over, I am thankful for the opportunities and friendships that Costa Rica has brought into my life.