Hi everyone! This past week has been incredibly busy yet rewarding at Confluent. With my time in Costa Rica being limited, I’m determined to make a lasting impression both as a dedicated worker and a positive individual. Consequently, I’ve been immersing myself in numerous projects. Outside of work, I’ve been exploring San José, sampling various foods, and even embarking on a fascinating coffee tour.

At Confluent, my primary focus has been on diligently writing and submitting documents to ensure our projects remain on schedule and meet the client’s specifications. This meticulous process is crucial as it helps us anticipate and navigate any potential obstacles. Additionally, I’ve been involved in creating an Installation Qualification (IQ) document. This document is essential for verifying that equipment and systems are installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and regulatory standards. I have found this work to be incredibly fulfilling as it ensures that our projects are set up for success from the very beginning, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.

Beyond the office, my culinary adventures with friends have been nothing short of delightful. Food plays a significant role in the cultural experience, so we’ve been sampling dishes from a variety of eateries. Each restaurant offered its own unique twist on traditional Costa Rican cuisine, allowing us to savor flavors we had never encountered before. This week, we had the pleasure of eating tacos that were a true culinary delight. Each taco was a small masterpiece, featuring soft, freshly made tortillas that were warm and slightly charred.

I also had the chance to engage in some friendly competition by playing football with locals. The match was not only competitive and fun but also highlighted the unmatched hospitality of the Costa Rican people. Despite the intensity of the game, the camaraderie and sportsmanship on display were truly heartwarming. It was a fantastic way to connect with the community and experience the local culture firsthand.

One of the week’s highlights was the Britt Coffee tour. This informative tour provided deep insights into the coffee-making process, from bean to brew. We were educated on the history of coffee in Costa Rica, the cultivation and harvesting techniques, and the intricate process of roasting. We sampled various types of coffee, including light roast, dark roast, and more. Each type had its own distinct flavor profile, reflecting the unique growing conditions and processing methods. I even bought some to share with my family back home, eager to give them a taste of Costa Rica.

 

After the tour, we visited a nearby restaurant to watch the Euros final. The atmosphere was electric, filled with both locals and tourists, all united by a love of football. The energy in the room was palpable as we cheered for our teams and celebrated every goal. It was an exhilarating experience, and celebrating with the locals made it even more special. Their passion for the game was infectious, adding another layer of enjoyment to an already thrilling match.

Costa Rica continues to amaze me with its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and the warmth of its people. Each day brings new experiences and opportunities to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. As I look forward to the remaining time here, I am excited about the adventures that lie ahead and the memories that will be made. This journey has been incredibly enriching, and I am grateful for every moment spent in this beautiful country.