Summer Park

Class of 2023

Posted on March 28, 2024

Meet Summer Park, a beacon of inspiration from our alumni community, whose journey in Costa Rica with Atlas Travel and MissionGO has been nothing short of extraordinary. Reflecting on her transformative experience, she shares, "For the past six months, I have been living with a community of young adults from different parts of the US who, like me, came to Costa Rica to study the Bible, learn Spanish, and experience a different culture."

Summer's enthusiasm for learning and cultural immersion shines through as she recounts her favorite part of the program, saying, "My favorite part of the program has been forming relationships with people from my church who I see each week for Sunday service, an ESL (English Second Language) class I help with, and youth group."

In addition to forming meaningful connections, Summer has been actively engaged in diverse Bible classes covering topics such as Hermeneutics, Apologetics, Church History, Doctrine of Salvation, Biblical Finance, and Biblical Counseling. She highlights the richness of learning from different teachers, each with their own distinct style yet all offering valuable insights and lessons.

Navigating the challenges of mastering a new language, Summer finds joy in the process of learning Spanish, witnessing the deepening connections she forms with the local community as her language skills improve.

Through it all, Summer's faith remains steadfast, guided by her experiences and interactions. She reflects, "I have seen the Lord growing me throughout this time here as I learn more about Him as well as myself and as I get to witness examples of His people in my program and in my church faithfully living for Him."

As she bids farewell to this chapter, Summer's heart is filled with gratitude for the profound impact of the GAP program, affirming, "It has been awesome getting to take part in the GAP program, and I will remember it for the rest of my life as a time of learning, forming relationships, and growing in my walk with Christ."

Join us in celebrating Summer's remarkable journey of growth, learning, and spiritual enrichment!