Karen Rivera

Penn State Undergraduate Biotechnology Major and Sociology Minor

"What I've gotten out of this experience is "real nature." Real nature as in nature outside of being manipulated and put on as an exhibit in a zoo. Nature shouldn't be boxed up in a glass for display, it should be natural. It is so much more enriching of an experience if you actually see life in its natural habitat. That includes the rainforest a La Selva, the untamed beach of San San, and the reefs of Bocas del Toro. This trip has made me realize how far apart we humans are from nature back at our home. We say we have nature around us at home if we plant some trees or have a park in the middle of the city, but it's not the same as places we've traveled to this trip. After this trip, I will try my best to keep the memory of nature alive in my mind. I'm always going to be thankful and humble about my food, water, and shelter. I will always be thinking of ways to conserve our living world."

Emily Parchuke

Penn State Undergraduate Biological Sciences and Health Professions Major

"Through our experience at OTS and working with Dr. Carlos de la Rosa, I discovered an area of research that I would like to pursue, as well as learning about a new potential career path. The short time spent with Dr. de la Rosa not only changed my academic plans, but also changed my life emotionally. Since working with Carlos and being introduced to scientific illustration, I feel like I have woken up every morning with more enthusiasm and excitement about my future. I am changing my major to Biology – ecology option – and pursuing an art minor while I continue my undergraduate studies. I hope to find a way to return to La Selva Biological Station next summer to work more in-depth with Dr. de la Rosa, and then pursue a master's degree in Scientific/Medical Illustration. I believe that finding this path and discovering this area of research and career choice was the most valuable portion of this trip."

Daniel Wignovich

Penn State Undergraduate Environmental Engineering Major 

"Reflecting on the entire field experience has shown me just how much we humans are making this beautiful planet worse and worse. In La Selva, it was deforestation and pollution of farm chemicals. In Bocas [del Toro], it was pulling trash out [of] the reefs and mangroves. San San was by far the most upsetting for me. The outpost there is so remote and yet is plagued by its own ocean constantly bringing in new trash. The waste and chemicals in that river were disgusting. Then on top of all that, [turtle] poachers came to kill some of the most amazing animals I have ever witnessed. The overall message: It's our fault. We are the species that was chosen to protect this planet and we are failing miserably. We aren't protecting enough. The researchers at La Selva and San San are my heroes and idols. They believe what I believe: that saving a species from extinction and the environment they live in is worth the blood, sweat and tears."

Rachel Loetzbeier

Penn State Undergraduate Biobehavioral Health Major and Biology Minor

"Participating in the CHANCE 2014 program allowed me to broaden my knowledge of hummingbirds and midges, learn the importance of research, learn the effects of human impacts on the environment, and be able to see those consequences firsthand. The [things] we saw and experienced on this trip are things I’ve only ever read about in books. Being here to see the damage that has been done, really hits home. What I really got out of the CHANCE program was being able to witness and experience conservation efforts that are making a difference throughout Costa Rica and Panama. I will share these experiences with my friends, family & classmates back home through the stories I have to tell.

We are all in this together. If we can raise awareness and inform others who aren’t as lucky to see the changes both good & bad that are happening in our world, we can accelerate the positive change. We need to work together to sustain our ecosystems and life of Earth."

Cinda Murray

Secondary Science Educator
Northwestern High School, Albion, PA

"Throughout the trip I have worked with some of the most amazing people on the planet. So when addressing the prompt, “Discuss what you have gotten out of the entire experience,” I would have to first say that I have gained an intense motivation to bring home information about biodiversity and conservation and to express the profound human connection that intertwined through stories, photos and videos.  Potential lessons that will carry my students to faraway places beyond the pages of a textbook description. 

I have felt bugs that bite and itchy aftermath of sand mixed with sweat in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. I grew to love and appreciate the dedication and perseverance of true conservationists  that I worked with. These individuals give without complaint, offering friendship, hospitality, and wisdom. The time at San San will forever be on my list of top ten contributions to the planet.

The greatest transformation has been the decision to go to the next level with environmental science. I have decided to seek additional coursework to bring me closer to the sustainable resources and methods to motivate and inspire youth to respond to needs of society in balance with sustainability. The journey has transformed me to become a better educator."