Field Studies Costa Rica

3 weeks

open to grades 8-12

Overview

Costa Rica combines all that we look for in a field studies program: a country with great physical beauty, welcoming people and worthwhile service opportunities.

We’ll start our trip in the nation’s capital, San José, with two afternoons of Spanish instruction to refresh our skills and increase our cultural awareness. Once settled, we’ll join up with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation to assist their efforts in La Carpio, a neighborhood on the outskirts of the city. In this underserved community, we will help with light construction projects and volunteer in a children’s center.

As a break from service work, we’ll challenge ourselves with a guided hike in Chirripó National Park. The trek will take us through constantly changing scenery with breathtaking views of the Talamanca Range. Next, we’ll travel to the Limón province to live and work in the remote coastal villages of Puerto Viejo. Here, we’ll contribute to the ongoing Overland projects of renovating schools and community centers along the coast.

Our time ends on the Pacuare River with two exciting days of rafting and a night in our tranquil riverside campground. Then, we’ll make our way back to San José and look back on three weeks of service and exploration.

“Every aspect of the trip was great!” Jessica Pomish, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Highlights

Serve the urban communities of San José
Travel to Puerto Viejo on the Carribbean coast
Raft the Pacuare River
Hike in Chirripó National Park
Explore Costa Rica’s culture & language

Grade

For students completing grades 8-12 in June 2012

Multiple sections are grouped by grades

Call us (413-458-9672) to check on current availability

Challenge Level

4 (1-10, 1 is easiest)

Start and End Location

Starts and ends in San José, Costa Rica

Accommodations

Most nights are spent indoors. Rooms will be shared among students of the same gender. Please bear in mind that accommodations in Costa Rica, while perfectly adequate, do tend to be simpler than in the United States.

Dormitory-style rooms in Coronado at Academia Tica
Cabins in Puerto Viejo
Mountain refuge accommodations in Chirripo National Park
1 night of comfortable tent-camping during the rafting trip (heavy canvas tents with matresses and linens provided)

Dates and Fees

3 Weeks

Sunday, June 24 to Friday, July 13
Sunday, July 15 to Friday, August 3

$4995 (airfare not included)

Itinerary

Program Start

After meeting in San José, we’ll head to San Isidro de Coronado, a small semi-rural community just northeast of the capital. Here we’ll settle into our group accommodations, spend time getting to know one another and prepare for the start of our adventure in Costa Rica.

Afternoons & Evenings

When we've completed our service for the day, we’ll explore Coronado, take a Costa Rican cooking class, taste the local exotic fruits and relax after a long day’s work. Each evening we’ll prepare and enjoy dinner together, and share the highs and lows of the day over dessert. In this way we'll gather each evening to look back over the rewarding day of teen summer service to the community and reenergize for the next day of outreach.

Language Learning

We’ll begin with two introductory afternoons of language classes at the nearby Academia Tica, a top language school in Costa Rica, which will also help to organize many of our service activities. Our classes will focus on both Spanish language and the cultural knowledge necessary to communicate and interact with local Costa Ricans during our service work. We’ll spend the day studying in two classes of no more than six students each, grouped by ability.

Volunteering in Coronado

After our afternoons of language learning, we’ll dedicate our time and energy to projects allowing us to reach out directly to the people of Coronado; we'll make a real difference while practicing our language skills and learning about the local culture. Academia Tica organizes our projects each year, depending on their needs and the current efforts of the communities where they work. In recent years, our groups have worked at the Asociacion Excelencia Familiar, an understaffed children's shelter, to provide much needed individual attention, organize recreational activities, help students with schoolwork and assist with facility improvements. Other projects in have included working on a community-supported organic farm, visiting with the elderly, and assisting the staff of a Downs Syndrome center in Coronado.

Volunteering with the Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF)

The CRHF is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1997. The CRHF has a number of ongoing projects throughout the country with under-served local poplulations. More details on the two CRHF efforts that our Field Studies Costa Rica group contributes to are below.

La Carpio Projects

La Carpio is located on the outskirts of San José. There are two main activities that students participate in alongside CRHF representatives. One is an ongoing effort by the organization to distribute bunkbeds to families with children. Overland groups construct the beds and then bring them to families in need. The other work our groups do in this location is volunteer in the children's center in La Carpio. Here, they will spend time with the kids, work on arts and crafts projects, play sports and make lasting friendships.

Puerto Viejo Project

Also organized by the CRHF, the group will spend time a week on a project on the Carribbean Coast. Overland began to work in the coastal communities of this region in 2006. Every year, the group spends a night in the cabins where Overland began their partnership with the CRHF and worked on a medical clinic for the community. The next day, they will travel to their own program location, helping to renovate a school, community center, or library. As a break from service work, the group will explore the culture of the region, visiting sites like butterfly gardens or chocolate factories to learn about this unique region.

Hiking in the Talamanca Range

The Talamanca Range is home to Mt. Chirripo National Park, the country's tallest mountain. We'll spend 4 days in the park exploring the area with professional local guides. Every student will carry a full pack with their sleeping bags, clothes, and personal items on the hike to our mountainside refuge accommodations. From there, we'll head out on day hikes with just a small backpack to explore the park.

Rafting the Pacuare

Our last excursion will take us to the Pacuare River for two days of white water rafting with Coast to Coast Adventures (www.ctocadventures.com). A great way to end our summer adventures, we'll paddle with experienced guides through exciting rapids, enjoy hikes to secluded waterfalls and spend a night along the banks of the Pacuare.

Program End

We'll return to San José for a final night together, celebrating all that we have learned and accomplished together this summer in the land of Pura Vida!

“Costa Rica Service was my fifth Overland program, and they keep getting better. They are always different, with new challenges, people to meet and places to explore.” Ellis Gould, Winnetka, Illinois

Trip Details

Service Hours

40 hours of service

Students: Is This Trip Right For You?

Field Studies Costa Rica requires a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard as volunteers. Participants should be eager to take part in a variety of service projects and be ready for both the challenges and rewards that service work in Costa Rica offers.

“Overland did a great job of balancing work and play.” Mary Cohen, Bethesda, Maryland

Photos

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Enrollment Forms

Enrollment Forms 2012

Field Studies Costa Rica Release Forms 2012

Prepare & Pack

Preparing for Your Trip

International service, language learning and cultural understanding require dedication, selflessness and hard work. Begin your preparations for a great summer now by organizing your clothing and gear. As the summer nears, stay active and fit through sports and exercise. The more you prepare, the more you will enjoy your program. Then once your program starts, commit yourself wholeheartedly to your group and all of its activities.

Special Health Requirements

All Overland students must be current on their routine vaccinations.
Overland advises students to consult with their family physician for information about protection against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, yellow fever and malaria. Please check with your physician as soon as possible about receiving the necessary vaccinations and to learn more about taking an anti-malarial drug prior to departure.
For complete health and safety information regarding traveler's health, please visit the CDC Website at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.aspx

Before Your Trip

While this program does not require any mountaineering skills, it is a challenging physical undertaking and you will be best prepared if you are fit and enthusiastic about the trek. You’ll be glad you did and it will make your trip much more enjoyable!
We strongly advise you to spend some time hiking this spring to feel fit and comfortable with a backpack and to break in your boots. We cannot emphasize enough how essential this is for a safe and enjoyable trip. Throughout the spring, wear your boots at home and go on several long walks or hikes in them.
You should go on at least three 5-mile hikes in your boots with a backpack with some weight in it. The additional hiking you do will make you better prepared for the trip.

Packing for Your Program

Please note that in many of the places we visit, it is culturally inappropriate for girls to wear short skirts, short shorts or tank tops; this clothing can bring unwanted and possibly unpleasant attention.
Be sure to bring comfortable clothes that can get dirty and be worn while volunteering.
Lightweight travel pants (three-quarter length or full-length), capri-style pants, long skirts, t-shirts and loose-fitting clothing are all appropriate.
Label the following items with your name, address and phone number.
You will have the chance to do laundry periodically so please stick to the packing list and bring only the clothes and items listed below.
Bring only what you need and pack everything in your backpack or daypack.
A note on weather: The group will experience many different types of climates. Please pay close attention to the warm and waterproof layers below - you will be grateful for them. Being well prepared with a variety of layers for different temperatures will make you feel comfortable and safe during the trip.
Some of our favorite brands in terms of quality of product for a reasonable price include REI, EMS and L.L.Bean.
Please do not bring any type of knife or multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman tool.

Clothing

Fleece Jacket or Pullover & Long Fleece Pants
The fleece should be medium to heavy weight and reasonably compact. Your fleece can also double as a pillow. Please do not bring jeans or sweatpants. They are heavy, bulky and will not keep you warm if wet.

Synthetic Long Underwear Top & Bottom
To stay warm on cool nights. Top can also be worn while hiking on cooler days.

Winter Hat & Gloves/Mittens
Hat and gloves/mittens should be insulated and warm, not knit and porous.

Bandana or Balaclava
Optional.

Waterproof Rain Jacket & Rain Pants
Your rain gear must be waterproof (not just water and/or wind resistant). GoreTex is one of the better-known waterproof, breathable fabrics, but there are many of these fabrics to choose from. We recommend rain jackets with hoods. Ponchos are not acceptable. Rain pants provide protection from wind and rain and are an extra warm layer when needed.
Lightweight Travel Pants
Two pairs, three-quarter length or full length. Made of synthetic material. Girls can bring skirts (past the knee) if they choose.

Shorts
Two pairs, made of synthetic material.
T-Shirts
Five, synthetic material preferred. Please no spaghetti strap tanktops.
Underwear
Seven pairs.
Socks
Three pairs of thick wool or synthetic socks made for hiking. Sock liners are optional. Five pairs of athletic socks for use with sneakers.

Sandals
Flip flops or Crocs work well.

Sneakers or Tennis Shoes
One lightweight pair of comfortable sneakers to wear for volunteering.

Pajamas
Optional. Pajamas aren't required as many students sleep in shorts and a t-shirt.

Bathing Suit
One.

Hiking & Camping Equipment

Hiking Boots
Waterproof hiking boots that are mid to high cut (recommended price range $100 to $175). Choose a comfortable boot that is designed for hiking with a medium weight pack.

Backpack
4,000-5,000 cubic inches. Before you purchase a backpack, find your backpack size by measuring your torso length and your hips. We recommend getting fitted at a store where you can try on a number of different packs.

Waterproof Pack Cover
If your backpack does not come with a cover, choose one that fits your pack well.

Day Pack
Your day pack can be used as a carry-on for your flight and will be necessary for day hikes. This can be a very basic backpack, maybe even just your school backpack. You should be able to carry it over both shoulders (i.e., NOT a satchel) and it should be big enough to hold your lunch, 2 water bottles, snacks and some extra warm layers and rain jacket.

Sleeping Bag and Stuff Sack
We recommend a lightweight, compact sleeping bag (synthetic or down) that is rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or less. Your sleeping bag should compress into a stuff sack which can then be cinched down to 12-20” in length.

Water Bottle
One 1-liter Nalgene (or similar) water bottle. Overland will provide you with a second water bottle on arrival. A Camelbak or similar water bladder is acceptable.

Headlamp & Extra Batteries
A small flashlight is OK but headlamps are great because your hands are freed up for other tasks.

Small Safety Whistle
Plastic or metal with a string or lanyard attached. This is for safety reasons in case a student is separated from the group.

Micellaneous Items

Valid Passport & International Health Certificate (if applicable)
Please make at least four photocopies of your passport and international certificate of vaccination. Leave one copy of both documents with your family and put photocopies of each in both your checked luggage and carry-on luggage for the flight, separate from your actual documents. Please also send a photocopy of your passport & international certificate of vaccination to our office if you have not already done so.
Student ID
Current school identification (if you have one).
Spanish-English Dictionary
Small travel size.
Spiral Notebook & Pen (for class)
Pictures From Home & Small Gift for Your Homestay Family (Field Studies Peru ONLY)
To share with your family: something unique to the U.S., your state or hometown (e.g., local t-shirt or magnet)
Community Donation Items
A few items of second hand clothing (for children or adults), arts & crafts material (e.g., markers, paint brushes, construction paper), or your favorite children's book (in Spanish).
Towel
Medium size cotton towel or synthetic camping towel.

Plastic Bags
Five large 1-gallon ziplock bags and two large trash bags. The ziplock bags are used to organize and waterproof your gear and small items. The trash bags are used to line your pack and to wrap your sleeping bag.

Toiletries
All items should be travel size. If necessary, you will be able to restock during the trip.

Moleskin or Molefoam
One full package for blister protection.

Sunglasses & Hat with Visor
Sunscreen (SPF 15+) & Chapstick (with SPF protection)
Please bring ample amounts of sunscreen.

Insect Repellent
Please bring ample amounts of bug spray.

Personal Journal or Book
Optional.

Digital Camera & Extra Batteries
Great for documenting the trip. Make sure you bring a large enough memory card (1 to 4 GB).

Spending Money
$100 total in cash or with a debit or ATM card. Students on international programs should note the exchange rate. As an alternative to carrying cash, ATM cards are also easy to use and widely accepted. Please be sure to inform your bank before traveling that your ATM card will be used outside the country.

Cell Phones, Electronics and Personal Property

Please note the following important policies:

Our programs offer the opportunity to strengthen independence and self-reliance. To maximize these benefits, we do not permit phone calls to or from our students (except in the case of emergency).

If it is important for your son or daughter to be able to call you while en route to Overland, we recommend that you purchase an inexpensive phone card that your son or daughter can use at any airport pay phone.

If you feel that it is necessary to send your son or daughter with a phone, please do not send an expensive smart phone like an iPhone or BlackBerry. Send an inexpensive prepaid cell phone instead. On arrival we will collect all phones but we have found that safeguarding these phones is problematic given that our programs move from place to place. Despite our best efforts over $25,000 in phones have been lost, damaged or stolen in the last two years alone. We regret that due to the expense involved in replacing these items, we take absolutely no responsibility whatsoever for phones, electronics or personal property brought by students and we will not make any reimbursements for lost, damaged or stolen phones, electronics or personal property.

Communications

To maximize independence and self-reliance, we do not permit phone calls, emails or text messages to or from our students (except in the case of an emergency).
Your child will call home with our phones and assistance on arrival and departure if he/she flies to his/her program.
In the case of an emergency, we will make sure you are in touch with your child as soon as possible.

Cell Phones

Cell phone use is prohibited on all Overland programs.
Any phone brought by a student will be collected by us on arrival and returned at departure.
If you decide to bring a phone, do not bring an expensive smartphone (e.g., iPhone or BlackBerry); instead bring an inexpensive prepaid cell phone (better yet, bring an inexpensive prepaid calling card).

Personal Electronics

We do not permit personal electronics (e.g., iPods, Kindles or iPads) except for digital cameras.
We do not permit emergency response or GPS tracking electronics.
Any electronics brought by a student will be collected by us on arrival and mailed home or returned at departure.

Personal Property

Overland is not responsible for any student’s personal property—including but not limited to: phones, electronics, cameras, equipment, bicycles and clothing. Please schedule all expensive items on your homeowners insurance policy to ensure that your child/ward’s personal property and equipment is covered against loss, damage or theft.

No Reimbursements for Lost, Damaged or Stolen Phone, Electronics and Personal Property

Despite taking precautions, some phones, electronics and personal property brought by students (and collected by us) have been lost, damaged or stolen. We regret that due to the expense involved in replacing these items, we take absolutely no responsibility whatsoever for phones, electronics or personal property brought by students and we will not make any reimbursements for lost, damaged or stolen phones, electronics or personal property.

Questions or concerns? Please call us. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.

Travel Information

Families are responsible for making travel arrangements to and from Juan Santamaría Internaional Airport in San José, Costa Rica. Overland’s leaders will be on hand at the airport to provide supervision and assistance at trip start and end.

DROP OFF: Juan Santamaria Intl Airport (SJO) outside of International Arrivals (outdoors) 12:00 noon Sunday
PICK UP: Juan Santamaria Intl Airport (SJO) Check-In Area 8:00 a.m. Friday
FLIGHT ARRIVAL: Juan Santamaria Intl Airport (SJO) between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Sunday
FLIGHT DEPARTURE: Juan Santamaria Intl Airport (SJO) between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon Friday

Any other special cases, please call Overland to coordinate, if you have not done so already.

Flight & Travel Information 2012

Program Start & End Information 2012

Mail Stops

Please send Letters & Postcards (rather than care packages)

Since we’re on the move and prefer to travel light, we encourage you to send letters and postcards rather than care packages.
Packages or any items larger than letters tend to get held up in customs and rarely reach the group in time.

Specific Instructions For Letters

On all letters: Please write clearly, in bold print, “Please hold for Overland Group” on the front of the envelope.
To send mail to Costa Rica, please allow a minimum of 2 weeks for delivery.
Do not send express mail to Costa Rica. It will be held at customs and will not reach the group in time.

Mail Stop: Mail must arrive prior to July 7th to ensure delivery to the group

Overland FSCR __
Student Name
c/o Academia Tica
San Rafael de Coronado
400 metros este del Super La Finca
ròtulo amarillo Quinta Toyopan
San José, Costa Rica

Helpful Reminders

Checklist and Reminders 2011

Apply Now

HOW TO APPLY

You have two choices. You can apply online with a credit card by clicking the link below.

Apply Online

Or you can download the 2012 Overland Application as a PDF (you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Then mail your completed one-page application and $795 deposit check to:

Overland
P.O. Box 31
Williamstown, MA 01267

For overnight mail via UPS or FedEx, please use our street address:

Overland
63 Spring Street
Williamstown, MA 01267

Applications are reviewed in the order in which they arrive at our office and we cannot hold spots over the phone.

Learn about our admissions process.

Lauren Sanchez

Hometown: Seattle, Washington
School: Middlebury College
Leadership: Field Studies Costa Rica
More about Lauren »

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