One memorable highlight for students has been learning the traditional sugar production process. Students joined local farmers in harvesting sugar cane by hand and took it to a community-run “trapiche,” or sugar mill. Here, they participated in crushing the cane, extracting its juice, and carefully watching as it slowly boiled over a wood fire. The process fostered a sense of community and patience as families gathered around to share meals and stories, allowing students to taste the delicious "sugar foam," a local favorite.

While in Costa Rica, students have lived with host families, deepening their cultural immersion through daily interactions. They practiced their Spanish, helped cook traditional meals, played games, and built genuine relationships. Visits to a local school, a stunning waterfall, and a specialty coffee farm have enriched their learning and reinforced connections to their Human Geography course.

This Four Point adventure embodies Gould Academy's core values of curiosity, courage, kindness, and creativity, providing students with a powerful opportunity for growth, perspective-building, and meaningful connections.