During the past year, I am not aware of any significant tensions that have come up, but there must always be in the back of one’s mind the willingness to keep the mind open to the experiences of others, and to be sensitive to the wisdom, and the “truth” that each beautiful, unique person is bringing to this melting pot of global awareness.
When the students arrive, usually during August, it is the rainy season, and by December it starts to dry out. It gets very windy here during late November and December and the hot, dry season takes over until roughly the end of April. Like most countries experiencing the effects of global climate change, Costa Rica is no exception, and this year has been noticeably cooler (thankfully for ME!!) with longer periods of wind and rain. This ALONE should be a good reminder to all of us of the importance of doing our work to help make our world better through making better choices that serve LIFE, instead of our individual, personal interests.
The year offers a chance for lifelong friendships (and even some relationships) to form, and this often is considered to be the greatest reward of what is shared between the students and faculty. I consider myself personally to be so very blessed and enriched by what each and every one of the students has brought not only to me, but also to the university itself.
It’s not ALL about work however, and there are opportunities to relax, socialize and enjoy various events around campus and around the region. Some of the more interesting events that have gone on this year include the annual UN model conference, which takes place in March each year. This event brings participants from schools around the region to do a “mock” UN simulation of the General Assembly, the Security Council and various other committees. Participants can choose to be a representative of a country delegation, of various international organizations, or of the media.
Another new event for this year was the introduction of Asian Fest, which was a presentation of food and cultural dress, and dance by all the students from Asian countries. This was a highly successful event, and lead to a much greater awareness of the Asian cultures. The possibilities are almost endless, if one has the desire and the time to commit to doing something to help share knowledge, smiles and laughter across the many borders of our world! Of course there are the usual house parties going on if one feels so inclined to do so! Every so often, Mother Nature throws in an earthquake or three, just to stir things up a bit, and make it a rockin’ good time around here!
Challenges facing UPeace
The guiding principles are honorable, as are the intentions of many great people who have, and still are, contributing to enhancing the reputation of this institution. Next > 1 2 3 4
