The Rubenstein Student-Athlete Civic Engagement (ACE) program presents a unique opportunity to serve a community in need, experience a foreign culture, form meaningful relationships, and practice the skill of reflection. Specifically, the ACE in Costa Rica program’s focus on sea turtle conservation, sustainable agriculture, and general stewardship of the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge particularly appeal to me.
Jack’s past experiences with volunteering and community engagement include planting trees with the environmental conservation organization Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, giving swimming lessons to people with physical and intellectual disabilities with the Joseph Maley Foundation, and helping run the local Special Olympics program at his high school.