Testimonials

“ It is evident to me that the combination of experiences Hannah had on this trip had a profound impact on her. This trip and all she has learned about herself, is sure to affect how she handles the challenges ahead. Thank you so much for a well-run program. Hannah enjoyed it immensely and she will clearly carry the memory of her experience forward into college. ”
- Patty Halpern, Parent of Hannah Bailenson, The Spence School, New York
“ Corey is still talking about his adventure in Costa Rica. He truly had an unforgettable experience and spoke very highly of Paul and Alissa. Thank you for being such great role models for Corey and providing him with the trip of a lifetime. ”
- Lynn Banks, Mother of Corey Banks, Palma High School, California
“ I appreciate everything that Walking Tree has done for me. This is definitely a life changing experience that I will never forget. Keep up the great work! ”
- Kelly Prince, Voorhees High School, New Jersey
“ Please continue to do this work. As many people as possible need to do a program like Walking Tree because it makes you a better person. ”
- Gina Ginsberg, The Center School, Washington
“ I cannot begin to describe the incredible life-changing experiences Casey has shared with our family. I know her time was well spent - a perfect blend of fun and service. Not only did she learn and live the culture of Costa Rica, she also has made some special friendships that I have no doubt will be lifelong. ”
- Lori Orzech, Mother of Casey Orzech, Regis Jesuit High School, Colorado
“ I have seen more natural beauty in one month in Costa Rica than I have in 15 years of being alive. ”
- Akash Badshah, Interlake High School, Washington
“ I have made so many valuable friendships and found out more about myself. I have had my eyes opened to another culture and way of life, which has made me appreciate my own life and be more understanding of differences. ”
- Alison Lewis, Boulder High School, Colorado
“ The homestay was life changing, honestly. I could have spent much more time with my great new family. ”
- Max Davis, The LAB School, New York
“ I think that Walking Tree did a fabulous job coordinating fun with work. I think that the kids experienced so many different things; you kept them interested and involved. ”
- Sarah King, Mother of Madeleine King, East High School, Colorado
“ I really liked how our leaders helped us make our experience and personal growth last. They gave us tools to remember our experience and bring our lessons home with us. ”
- Andrew Forseth, Arts & Communication Magnet High School, Oregon
“ The program provided a great way of seeing Costa Rica not just as a tourist, but as a traveler. ”
- Lauren Lupatkin, San Marin High School, California
“ The homestay was one of the greatest, most memorable experiences I’ve ever had. It took no more than two or three days for everything to click and it eventually felt so right that I could easily call it home. The overall amount of love and caring from my family was overwhelming and the feeling of belonging I had in the village is impossible to describe and something I’ll never forget. The homestay affected me in many positive ways and the only thing that could have possibly made it better was if it was longer. ”
- Erin Bates, East High School, Colorado
“ What I have gotten out of the homestay is remarkable. My family had a bathroom that was outside, no hot water and their walls did not reach the ceilings. They lead a very humble lifestyle. After my first night I was telling everyone how hard I had it when of course this was a home for a family. I really learned to understand the differences between the way I live and the way others do. It was a truly enlightening experience. ”
- Christopher Pigott, Lakeside High School, Washington
“ Gabriel, Paul and Luke were not only amazing as guides for a month, but also as friends, leaders and all around people. Their leadership on this trip made me want to push myself, not only in Costa Rica, but further in life to graduation, college, jobs and a family. I realize I can put passion into reality. ”
- Caitlin Trent, Regis Jesuit High School, Colorado
“ My homestay was amazing. They were so giving; they wanted me to be comfortable 100% of the time. They were so patient with the language barrier and made me feel like a part of their family. ”
- Ashley Conway, Gladstone High School, Oregon
” My experience in Costa Rica was amazing in so many ways. It is impossible to describe how rewarding it was to overcome the various challenges we faced, but I know that the trip has forever changed me and the way I view the world. I’ll never forget it! ”
- Hannah Bailenson, The Spence School, New York
“ First, we would like to thank all of you for all your tremendous work up front and during the trip to make it such an incredible experience. We were completely satisfied with Troy’s experience. (So was he!!) We asked him if he would go again and he said, “In a heartbeat. It was worth every penny and more! ”
- Bill and Carolyn Wiese, Parents of Troy Wiese, East High School, Colorado
“ Activities such as travel, community service, and language immersion are valuable on their own, and often strengthen one’s credentials as they apply to college. ”
- Steven R. Antonoff, Ph.D., Certified Educational Planner
“ This trip helped me realize that you don’t need tons of material things to be happy, that having people in your life that care about you is what really matters. It made me really appreciative of what I have at home and helped me become more independent. ”
- Hannah Feliciano, Holy Names Academy, Washington
“ Walking Tree does a great job. You have a wonderful rapport with kids, you teach them the value of community service and help them learn to work cooperatively together. ”
- Mary Beth Garel, Mother of Jill Garel, Cherry Creek High School, Colorado