Computer Science
This summer I was given the opportunity to work with an organization called Hogar CREA in Costa Rica. I worked with boys aged 10-18 that have had previous problems with drugs. As the middle class grows in Costa Rica, so many people are still left in stunning poverty and many of these kids wind up in facilities like this one. The organization is a live-in facility that works with the boys to uncover the underlying causes for their drug use and help them get back on the right track. At Hogar CREA I worked with students to get them caught up in school, tutoring them in several subjects such as English, math, biology and history. Additionally, I led several workshops with the kids on themes such as “Respect for Women,” “Self Esteem,” and “Mental and Physical Health.” This was a transformative experience for me as it showed me firsthand the differing levels of opportunity afforded to people. I was pushed to broaden my world view and examine myself and the ways that I could help others. Additionally, it forced me out of my comfort zone and allowed me the chance to experience life in a completely different way.