At the National University of Costa Rica, Jose specialized in sustainable tourism with an emphasis on business administration and rural development. Prior to his studies, Jose worked with volunteer groups in his hometown in Costa Rica, which is well known for its community development programs through volunteering. Jose also lived in Germany for a year with a service program where he had the opportunity to work with children from different parts of the world, interact with them, and learn about their culture. While there, he lived with a German family, learned the language, and traveled all over Europe. In Costa Rica, Jose volunteered in several national parks, helping in different wildlife programs. Currently, Jose works as a guide in Costa Rica. Jose is fluent in Spanish, English, and German. This fall, he will take a four-day hike up Costa Rica’s highest mountain, one of his favorite hobbies. He has led Putney’s Service program in Costa Rica.