Breannan O’Hara, center, stands with her host parents, Alberto and Marcela, in Costa Rica. // Courtesy of Breannan O’Hara.

Living with a host family was nerve-racking at first, but it turned out to be my favorite experience while studying abroad. The experience has given me a different perspective on family life after knowing only North American norms. One new value I am very grateful for is slowing down the pace of our hectic lives and spending quality time with loved ones. 

Since day one, my host family and I have sat down at the dining table for at least an hour for breakfast and dinner, always starting with a “Buenos dias” and ending with a “Buenas noches.”  Those times have been filled with uncontrollable laughter and storytelling of our pasts. We got to share and understand one another’s values and culture, creating a tightly-knit bond between us. 

The most memorable dinners were on Sundays, when my host family had barbecues in the backyard. I felt an incredible sense of belonging among the whole family, including their three sons. We all enjoyed delicious food together, such as grilled plantains, steak and pumpkin soup, all while upbeat traditional music played in the background. My roommates and I always convinced them to play Bad Bunny at the end of the night.

My host mom, Marcela, is an incredible artist and is passionate about painting. She hosts a painting class for friends, neighbors, and relatives on Wednesday evenings and includes me as part of the family. We chat and paint Christmas-themed decorations together. Marcela loves the holidays and has filled the house with her handcrafted decorations, full of sparkle and magic. 

My host dad, Alberto, has never failed to put a smile on my face. He helped me through the language barrier by making hilarious facial expressions and gestures, like we were playing charades. His rooster impression is one of my favorites because the neighbor has one that crows every morning. The animal sounds used here differ completely from America, so I was very confused as to what he was mimicking when he was saying “kitty, kitty, kitty” at first. We gave him the nickname El Rey, the king. 

We often took trips to the local farmer’s markets, grabbing fresh fruit that would complement our breakfast. There were countless stands, the market looking like a rainbow with all the vibrant colors. Marcela and Alberto informed me of all the exotic fruits with unique shapes and flavors, and we would end our nights with a sweet treat from Pops, a famous ice cream shop here.  

From the day I arrived, I have been welcomed with open arms. The love and support I have received from my host parents made me feel right at home. Despite all of the cultural challenges, my relationship with them has developed into one similar to a real family. Our goodbyes will be hard, but I will cherish my time living here forever. 

This is Breannan O’Hara’s final column of the fall semester. O’Hara, a junior, studied in Costa Rica from September through December.