Past Review
By Lordy (Biology, and Spanish, New Mexico State University) for
Centro Panamericano de Idiomas (CPI): Heredia - CPI Language Center
My program abroad experience was definitely worthwhile. I learned or better my spanish skills and learned how people live and act in a different country. I got to see some amazing views, waterfalls in old volcano craters, lava coming from an active volcano and much more. You get a lot of exercise so take good shoes for walking. The foods are different but some are pretty good especially trying new tropical fruits. I think that you have to experience it yourself to really appreciate it and see what you gain from it because I think it's different for everyone. I also made friends there from Costa Rica and different places in the U.S.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Heredia, Flamingo, Monteverde |
| The term and year this program took place: | Summer 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I had to switch one of my families because I didn't feel very welcomed. |
| * Food: |
It was some what of an adjustment. Be prepared for a lot of beans and rice. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
It was a really fun environment to be in and experience. People for the most part were really nice and enjoyable. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt pretty safe, just some nervous problems every once in a while. Mainly don't travel alone at night. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Take only as much as you need for a day. Lunches aren't provided they can be anywhere from 6 to 8 dollars at the cheapest. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I felt that I definitely improved with my language skills but I think I could have been in a higher level course to start with. |
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | They everything offered to you that you can afford. It's a great program because you can and should try all the sites Heredia and Monteverde were my favorite, but decide for yourself. Probably take 2 pairs of shoes. Cause there is lots of rain. |
