<p>Truth be told I always wanted to do one of those volunteer programs in Costa Rica or whatever all summer long...just the idea of working closely with friends in an amazing new environment, learning Spanish...very appealing. </p>
<p>But then I thought about all the people who needed my help here, and how the money those kind of programs cost could better be used as a donation. Sure, it would be fun and a great experience. But if you are really concerned about helping people, I think you could really find a better use for 4,000 dollars...</p>