My Time in Costa Rica: Connection Beyond Words
By Quinn Wherley
Human connection lives in far more places than simple conversations. It exists in welcoming smiles, shared meals, games played, and quiet acts of kindness. Through my travels in rural areas in Costa Rica, I have found that connection truly is all around. Above all else, I have been able to see how people everywhere share the same desire: to connect with one another.
It is quite the daunting task for an 18-year-old to travel to a new country, without their parents, speaking a new language, living in a different climate, and still be expected to have an impact on an entire community. Yet, through courage, flexibility, and confidence, this proved to be an easier task than it sounds.
Teaching English in La Victoria
While volunteering as an English teacher at an elementary school in La Victoria, a small town on the border of Nicaragua, I was able to witness many remarkable moments of human connection. Despite language barriers, physical differences, and limited resources, the children consistently found ways to welcome me into their community.
It all started with a plethora of hugs from any children who saw me, often followed by a myriad of questions in Spanish. In various classes, the children and I bonded through physical gestures, such as laughter, dancing, or coloring – all of which are universal languages. Connection does not depend on speaking the same language perfectly or having similar backgrounds. It simply depends on a willingness to reach out to one another.
The children I worked with, ranging from ages 6-12, never failed to amaze me in their sheer gratitude. Despite having limited access to books, markers, or papers, they would consistently share candies or toys with me. Before coming here, I often viewed service through the lens of giving – giving time, giving knowledge, or giving resources. Although these aspects are important, I have been able to reflect that, oftentimes, the most valuable impacts come not from what we provide, but from the encouragement we offer.
Most times, I did not eat the candies given to me by these precocious children, but the sheer act of service made me feel both seen and welcomed. I took inspiration from this in my approach to teaching. I realized that it is just as valuable to inspire these children as it often is to physically teach them. In essence, I aimed to show these children they are worth far more than they realize. Inspiration might not always be tangible, but its effects can last far longer than any material gifts.
My Host Family in Upala
Outside of the loving community in La Victoria, I am eternally grateful for my host family, who never failed to welcome me with open arms and introduce me to the blossoming community of Upala. The Quesada family, despite being a first-time host family, truly felt like an extension of my own. Whether it was running errands, cooking dinner together, or picking fruit in the backyard, I consistently felt treated as another offspring.
Our language barrier and physical differences made no difference in building a quick connection, far surpassing spoken words. This kindness reminded me that home is not always a place you have known your whole life, but can be created through generosity, patience, and a willingness to open your heart. When I think about human connection beyond words, I cannot help but to think of the Quesada family, who made me feel welcomed, valued, and loved in a place that was otherwise entirely unfamiliar.
A Renewed Belief in Human Connection
Volunteering in the communities of La Victoria and Upala has certainly pushed me outside my comfort zone – but I am so grateful it has. It challenged my expectations, tested my adaptability, and taught me patience. As I leave with the memories of students who welcomed me with loving arms, or patient women who welcomed me with warm cups of coffee, I carry a renewed belief in the power of human connections.
The greatest lesson I learned in Costa Rica was not merely about teaching English, but about community. No matter where we come from, what languages we speak, or what obstacles we face, people are wired to connect with one another.
I believe that when we choose to support, encourage, and inspire each other, we create something stronger than any hardships we may encounter alone.