Last summer, I was fortunate to participate in a transformative service trip to Costa Rica with Global Leadership Adventures through a program called The Initiative for Children. Over the course of two weeks in July, I taught math, English, and other subjects to underprivileged elementary school students whose eagerness to learn and grow was beyond inspiring. This experience combined service, cultural immersion, and a focus on personal growth.

      Each day began around 8 am with breakfast and collaborative lesson planning, where my peers and I outlined teaching goals and memorized key Spanish phrases to help us bridge our language gap and communicate effectively. Because the Costa Rican school year differs from ours, the first week was spent leading to summer, while the second marked their official start of the school year.

      In addition to teaching, we also worked on beautification projects for the playgrounds and gardens, so students could return to a refreshing and welcoming environment. To better understand the local culture and have some fun exploring another country, we also participated in activities like tubing, a pineapple farm tour, and a chocolate and coffee tasting tour that gave us a deep appreciation for the history and natural beauty of the country.

      One of my most memorable moments and favorite days was the back-to-school celebration, filled with music, different games, and a school-wide cross-country race. Seeing the kids so happy to be back at school and learn showed me how much our presence truly meant to them. I chose this program because I wanted to push myself, and as someone who only speaks English and never studied Spanish before my trip, I knew it wouldn't be an easy task. This trip taught me not only how to find connections beyond language but also to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. It brought Taft’s question, “What does it mean to be human,” to life. This trip reminded me that empathy, curiosity, and care are universal, and through any cultural, language, and economic differences, we remain connected.

      Now, after returning home with a broader global perspective, lasting friendships, and a deepened commitment to supporting underserved youth by expanding their access to high-quality education, I can say this trip has fundamentally changed me as a person in every way possible. I encourage anyone with even a spark of interest or curiosity to explore an opportunity like this. It has the power to change the life of those you aim to serve, but your own in the process!
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William W. Hatfield ’32 Grants are supported by an endowed fund established in 2010 and made possible through the generosity of Guy Hatfield ’65, Ross Hatfield, and the ongoing support of William W. Hatfield's family. The grant celebrates the ideals of Horace Dutton Taft—service above self—and is given annually to one or more students whose commitment to volunteerism brings to life the message behind Taft's motto: Non ut sibi ministretur sed ut ministret—Not to be served but to serve.