Every year, SPI Study Abroad awards one outstanding student with the La Esperanza Scholarship, a full scholarship to participate in SPI’s Costa Rica program. This year’s winner was Logan Price, an exemplary student and leader from Broken Arrow High School in Broken Arrow, OK. Check out our interview with Logan, in which he talks about why he chose SPI, what his favorite parts of the program were, and how his first abroad experience has changed and shaped his life for the better.

SPI: Tell us about yourself!

Logan: I’m the oldest of four. I’m class president at the largest high school in the state of Oklahoma. I also play club and high school soccer, enjoy doing volunteer activities around my school and community, and love to travel with friends and family. My opportunities to travel have been very limited, so traveling abroad with SPI was something I knew I had to do this summer. Only a month later it has already proved to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

SPI: Why did you choose SPI?

L: SPI was very helpful, informative and straightforward in all aspects of my trip. From planning to packing to flying, the professionalism and experience of everyone involved was evident. Before deciding to spend my study abroad experience with SPI, I knew I wanted an international study program that would expose me to worldwide travel in an effective and memorable manner — with SPI, that is exactly what I got.

SPI: What did it mean to you to be chosen as the recipient of SPI’s La Esperanza Scholarship?

L: The La Esperanza Scholarship is a great opportunity for all study abroad students. No matter where you come from, if international travel and seeing and impacting the world means that much to you, then this scholarship is your gift to a new adventure. To receive this award means not only a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but your chance to influence the world in ways you never thought imaginable.

SPI: How has this experience impacted you?

L: My experience is one I’ll never forget. Not only was it my first opportunity to travel outside the U.S., it was also my first opportunity to begin living the life I want to live forever: one of scholarship, gratitude, cultural exposure, and international travel.

SPI: What was your favorite activity/excursion?

L: My favorite activity was on the last day of the program when we went on a snorkeling cruise. A multimillion dollar yacht with all-you-can-eat food and a sun deck provided one of the best experiences of my trip! However, it wasn’t only the amenities that made the adventure so memorable; the friends you share these memories with are probably the most important part of the entire program.

SPI: What was your favorite part of the program?

L: I have too many favorites to list. From the most wonderful school, to the most fabulous setting, to the best homestay experience anyone could ever imagine, my adventure in Costa Rica is one I will carry with me for the rest of my life.