Student Spotlight: A Journey Through Costa Rica
From June 6 to June 13, one of our Damien juniors, Noah Larrabee, had the incredible opportunity to travel to Costa Rica along with other students from across the country for an educational adventure unlike any other. The trip was organized by one of our very own teachers, Mr. Murakami. This week-long experience was filled with hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and cultural immersion — offering valuable lessons far beyond the traditional classroom. Below is Noah’s personal reflection on the unforgettable trip, highlighting the moments that made the experience truly meaningful.
Learning Outside the Classroom in Costa Rica
My Costa Rica experience was absolutely fantastic.
It was full of education, filled with exciting and adventurous experiences every day. During my stay, I was able to take part in all sorts of thrilling and adventurous things, and discover the rich history, diverse wildlife, and welcoming communities of the country. It was a holiday of discovery and adventure, with every day a new and unforgettable experience.
One of my best memories is netting bats at night. It may sound unusual, but it turned out to be one of the trip highlights. We would take an evening walk into the forest, set up special nets referred to as mist nets, and just wait in silence in the dark. Before long, bats would fly into the nets, and we could view them up close. We discovered how researchers study these animals without harming them, and the importance of bats as far as the environment goes. It exposed me to an entire newfound respect for animals I had previously known nothing about.
Another standout experience was zip lining through the forest canopy. Zooming at high speeds through the treetop canopy was exhilarating and provided a unique view of the forest from above. From a high altitude, I could see birds, branches, and the layers of the rainforest one never catches a glimpse of from the ground. We were all safely roped in, and the guides provided the entire ordeal with a sense of enjoyment and security.
We also rafted down a scenic and very long river, whitewater rafting in a truly exciting but scenic manner. We got our adrenaline pumping from the rapids, but we also had calm sections where we could breathe in the stunning scenery around us. We had greenery all around, and we even saw some animals along the way on the riverbanks. The cooperation required to paddle through the rapids bonded our group together, and by the time we finished, we were all laughing and wet, and most of all accomplished.
Whitewater rafting in Costa Rica
We also stayed overnight in several hotels, each of which had its own character. Some offered great views of the mountains, while others were surrounded by dense woods. The food was wonderful and fresh, excellent, and typically made from local ingredients. I had the chance to try authentic Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto, fresh fruit, and grilled meat. Every meal was an experience in itself.
We also made some guided treks through the woodlands, where we saw a staggering variety of animals and plants. From brightly colored frogs to curious monkeys swinging through the trees, the variety of life was stunning. The guides were knowledgeable and keen, so we respected the environment and didn't bother the animals one bit. They taught us how to observe wildlife responsibly and safely, and their stories made every excursion a living documentary.
In the end, my Costa Rican experience was more than a holiday but an experience that opened up my world to realizing the magnificence of nature and the importance of preserving it. I left with amazing memories, new knowledge, and an enhanced appreciation of this beautiful country.
Noah’s experience in Costa Rica is a powerful reminder of how travel can open our eyes to the beauty of nature, the richness of other cultures, and the value of learning beyond the classroom. Opportunities like these help our students grow as global citizens, adventurers, and thoughtful young leaders.
If Noah’s story inspired you, you won’t want to miss next year’s trip to the Galápagos Islands! It promises to be another unforgettable journey filled with discovery, wildlife, and hands-on exploration.
Interested in joining?
There will be an informational meeting on Thursday, August 21, at 6:00 PM in Room 214 for interested students and parents. For more information or inquiries, please email Mr. Murakami @ rmurakami@damien.edu.
This trip is open to students 6th through 12th grade. Check out the informational video to get an idea of this amazing opportunity.
