Opportunity Scholars Program at USC

Hola me llamo Jordyn, I am an accounting and Management double major with a minor in leadership studies going into my senior year.

Sadly this trip is coming to an end with there only being hours left of us being in this beautiful country. I am very grateful that I was able to have my first experience flying to another country with my OSP family. I have had so many wonderful experiences, have made so many great friends, and have made a ton of memories that will last me a lifetime. I loved everything about Costa Rica from the culture, delicious food, friendly atmosphere, and their country’s overall beauty. Since being here I can say that I have learned so much about mental health in Costa Rica and has gained a whole new perspective on what another country looks like in relation to the U.S. I would say that one of the most touching moments thus far has been visiting the homeless shelter and getting to hear many of their residents inspirational stories. This experience was very eye opening to just how fortunate I am and often take things for granted. So just to sum up, I have had the time of my life this week and want to give a special thanks to my OSP family for making this trip Possible.

Hello, my name is Wayneiesha McCray and I am a rising sophomore studying nursing. I didn't think I'd like Costa Rica at first, but after a couple of days, I realized it's a wonderful, pleasant, and joyful location. Costa Rica was an incredible experience for me. The scenery is breathtaking. We visited Hogar de la Esperanza today, which is a homeless shelter where we met HIV-positive and transgender individuals. Today was a very emotional day for me. This journey was enjoyable for me since those individuals demonstrated their tenacity. They didn't give up even when they were at their lowest. Many people doubted them and refused to believe in them, but they recognized they were valuable and that they weren't the only ones in this world suffering from their illnesses. Hearing their experiences inspired me to believe that no matter what obstacles you face, you can overcome them and turn your life around. This experience was very unforgettable. To my fellow OSP students, studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity that you should take advantage of.

"Spending time together as a family is a gift." ❤️This quote was chosen because OSP has become my second family, and I would not trade it for anything. As my time here is coming to an end I just wanted to say thank you to all the OSP staff and the things they do for us scholars. And also thank you for making my first out-of-country/study-abroad trip achievable. This trip was definitely one for the books. Adios amigos!

Love,
Wayne-Iesha McCray 🫶🏾

Hello Everyone! My name is Traniah and I am a rising sophomore studying Psychology with a minor in Counseling. Traveling to Costa Rica has been an amazing experience for me. Before coming to college, I could not imagine myself studying abroad after my first year. I have enjoyed every moment spent here and this opportunity would not be possible without my wonderful OSP family.

Today, we participated in a service learning day at Hogar de la Esperanza which provides housing and rehabilitation to the homeless community living with HIV. Visiting this center was a true eye opener and humbling experience for me. As I listened to multiple members of this community share their personal stories, I quickly developed a strong appreciation towards them for being so open and honest with us.

Though this study abroad trip is coming to an end, I can honestly say that I have valued every experience thus far. I can’t wait to go home and share my experience with friends and family. :)

Buenas Días! Me llamo Tiara. I know last year I wouldn’t think I would be in Costa Rica studying abroad and I am so grateful for this opportunity! Within our few days of being here I have already learned so much about the Costa Rican culture, but there is still so much to learn! Day 3 was filled with so much! We had the pleasure of going to the city of Cartago here in Costa Rica. The views were amazing. It was also emotional as our families sent us letters about how much they miss us and are proud of us for taking on this opportunity. My family definitely did a great job of keeping it a secret and sent a nice picture of my doggy too as I miss them so much, I cant wait to see them and tell then about my trip, but I also don’t wanna leave this beautiful country! If you have ever thought about studying abroad or want to I 10/10 recommend it as it is a great opportunity and a once in a lifetime experience! My favorite part has definitely been getting to meet new OSP family members and friends during this trip. As they say here “Pura Vida!” y Adiós!

Being away from home can be challenging while abroad! For many of the OSP scholars on the trip, this is their first time away from home!

To make their experience special, I contacted parents, family members, mentors and guardians requesting that they write a special letter of encouragement! Parents had creative flexibility to send pictures, quotes and a personalized letter to me and then I printed out all of the responses and placed them in envelopes!

Day 3 of the trip overlooking amazing views of the mountains, I could not think of better timing to give the scholars and even faculty their letters from their loved ones!

Needless to say, there were tears and excitement!

It's the little things that make the biggest difference :)

Hey there scholars! Join your OSP fam in an online social that is just for you! 😆🎊

Worried that you missed out? No worries! You can still interview to be an OSP mentor by clicking the link below. 😀

https://calendly.com/ospatusc/2020-osp-mentor-virtual-interviews

A Scholar-ly reminder that tutoring services are available virtually! 😊

Calling all mentor hopefuls! Sign ups for virtual interviews for the OSP Mentor Program are live right now.

Click the link in the bio to sign up and get more info!
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Did you know that quilts are historic? Their design and significance varies depending on the region. Come learn more about this tradition during this OSP/IIDL field trip on 3/3/2020 at 3:30 pm.

If you want to be FAME-ous, stop by the FAME interest meeting TODAY at 5:30. If you are not sure that FAME is for you, email [email protected] for more info!

Secure your spot in the "What Does OSP Mean to Me" IIDL event by tomorrow (2/28/2020) with Dr. Cornet! This will be an event where you can show off your own artistic chops. 🎨🎼🎤

Email [email protected] to confirm before those spots fill up.