Bradley’s Trip to Costa Rica

Bradley’s Trip to Costa Rica

A Transformative Experience

Over the summer, Bradley Yeboah, Class of 2026, spent three weeks in Costa Rica through The Experiment in International Living’s (EIL) Leadership Institute program. Early in the trip, he explored biodiversity and sustainability within the local ecosystem. As part of the program, students fully immersed themselves in Costa Rican culture, spending 10 days with a host family in La Palma. During this time, they contributed to the community by building a playground and library and planting mangrove trees. For Bradley, the time spent with the community was a highlight of his trip, and he’s happy to share that he still keeps in touch with his host family! EIL encourages students to carry out a post-community project upon returning home, so Bradley teamed up with ABC volunteer Chris Kingsbery to promote sustainable living practices. Together, they introduced initiatives focused on recycling and reducing carbon emissions by growing cilantro and basil at the house. With support from his mother, Portia Yeboah, and ABC volunteer Yaz Bakht, Bradley was able to take full advantage of this opportunity. Now, he’s inspiring his housemates to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world as well. Reflecting on his experience, Bradley shared: “It is a life-changing experience to be able to enhance your global perspective and live in households of different backgrounds.”

(Left to right): Bradley with his host brother in Costa Rica; Bradley’s cohort replanting mangroves that have been damaged by erosion