Tempe, AZ — Fifty Arizona State University (ASU) students had the chance to join a two-week, fully funded study abroad program during the winter break. The participants are part of the Early Start program, which is designed to help incoming first-year students prepare for a successful college experience.
The students traveled to Monteverde, Costa Rica, a region known for its rich ecological diversity. There, they studied various aspects of culture, history, and sustainability.
Aaliyah Washington, one of the Early Start participants, shared her excitement: “My mom and I stayed up late waiting for the Costa Rica application to open. When I got accepted, I immediately called her. We screamed, and she cried tears of joy. As a first-generation student, everything is new for us.”
Kamalei Pahukula, an anthropology major, reflected on the program’s impact: “When we learn about climate change, we often hear only the negative side. But here, I saw the positive side — sustainability in action. It’s inspiring to know that it’s possible to make things better, not just reduce the harm.”
Maria Vargas Cesario, another participant, shared her personal journey: “This was my first time traveling abroad. I didn’t even have a passport before going to Costa Rica, and ASU helped me get one. It was my first time at an airport and my first time packing a suitcase for anything other than my dorm room.”
In addition to the study abroad program, ASU is fostering intergenerational connections through its Friendship Bench initiative. The program encourages younger students to engage in casual conversations with older adults to combat loneliness.
Culiver, a resident at Mirabella, ASU’s retirement community, described the experience: “I find it energizing to talk with the students. One girl told me, ‘I’ve only been here 15 minutes, but I feel so much better. It’s like talking to my grandma.’”
Dr. Karshmer, dean of the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, emphasized the importance of the program: “Isolation among students was a challenge before the pandemic, but COVID made it worse. The Friendship Bench is a vital initiative to ensure that students feel connected and supported, contributing to their overall well-being.”
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