Destiny Jenkins
Staff Writer
destiny.jenkins@hawks.shorter.edu
Students are given the chance to study in different countries for the expansion of personal growth, an understanding of other cultures and world dynamics, improvement of language skills, and increased confidence, independence, and maturity.
Senior psychology major Joshua Jenkins had the opportunity to study abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica, for the fall semester 2015. Jenkins had the experience of a lifetime, although he had to get used to another busy schedule.
Jenkins learned much Spanish, and he was surrounded by the native language from attending a Spanish-speaking church to becoming a familiar friend with the neighborhood children.
One of the struggles of being in San Jose was training. Jenkins is a a part of the Cross Country and Track and Field teams.
While in Costa Rica, Jenkins wanted to continue his training but did not know what to expect. He found that it was difficult to get his training because he could get lost of the city’s population.
Nevertheless, Jenkins got to meet people who shared the same running passion and experienced another side of Costa Rica by running miles and exploring the city.
On one occasion, Jenkins and his roommate ended up running up a mountain and got to see the city from a different perspective.
Some of the activities that Jenkins enjoyed were different excursions he went on with his friends.
Jenkins went to Panama and met a backpacker from Germany and went to La Fortuna where he saw a volcano and a waterfall.
From the whole study abroad experience, Jenkins questions, “why me?” He explains how he was so blessed to have the opportunity to experience a whole new way of living.
“I am constantly reminded when I receive all these blessings is to be a blessing to others,” he said. “God doesn’t just give you things, but He gives you talents and abilities outside of yourself so that you can glorify Him.”
Jenkins ended his journey by saying “purda vida” which means pure life. It is a saying that the natives say as they leave each other.
For more information about study abroad opportunities, contact the Office of International Program.
