The Buzz

Five Proctor sophomores spent the spring trimester living and learning in Costa Rica's Monteverde region, challenging themselves daily. Beyond academic skills and knowledge, they came away with profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of themselves.

This group of intrepid Proctor 10th graders pauses to consider what they have learned during their time living with Costa Rican host families, through place-based learning at The Cloud Forest School, and simply from daily interactions that shape their experience of the culture and community.

Five Proctor sophomores are spending their spring term studying abroad in Monteverde, Costa Rica – living with host families, taking classes, and immersing themselves in the culture, language, and biodiversity of the region.

Proctor en Monteverde students are settling into life in Costa Rica, navigating the daily rhythms of homestay living, Spanish immersion, and the stunning natural environment of the cloud forest.

While Proctor's off-campus programs offer exciting experiential learning opportunities across the globe, Sophie '27 and Elliot '27 reveal these experiences are often incredibly challenging. Yet through perseverance, students gain not only useful skills but experience profound personal growth and forge connections that forever alter their worldviews.

In this update from Proctor en Monteverde, ST '27 and Fritz '27 share their experiences exploring the Children's Eternal Rainforest alongside renowned biologist Mark Wainwright.

         As six Proctor sophomores conclude their term abroad in Costa Rica, they have discovered that some of their most significant growth comes from embracing challenges and stepping outside their comfort zones. Navigating daily life in a new culture – whether working through language barriers with host families or finding the courage to explore independently – has fostered self-sufficiency and confidence.

Colin '27 and Cian '27 share how their decisions to venture out with friends led them to discover more about Monteverde's unique environment and culture – from documenting their hike through distinct microclimates and gaining perspective on the local geography to forming spontaneous connections with local children at a playground.

As six Proctor sophomores settle into their daily routines in the cloud forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica, their initial apprehension about living with host families and navigating a new culture has transformed into excitement and appreciation for this cultural and linguistic immersion program.