Costa Rica: Beautiful people where I learned so much! Past Review

By (Spanish and Public Relations, Western Kentucky University) for

CISabroad (Center for International Studies): San Jose - January in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I loved Costa Rica. I loved getting to know the culture and see how care free they were and loving and friendly. It's a country where people appreciate what they have and make the most of everyday and know how to love!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned a lot, but was very disappointed at first because I was not able to enroll in that class that I needed and no one was very helpful in working this out for me and I had to take the other class. It only worked out thanks to my advisor at my home university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Very helpful!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was arranged for me and I was able to walk to school. Nightlife was good because other Americans lived with me that I could spend time with. I loved my host family! They treated me as a family member and were so kind and hospitable.

* Food:

My host mom rocks at cooking!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved the trips on the weekend to the beaches and mountains. And the dance classes offered! So great!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt very safe. Weren't any vaccines needed.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I lived with a family so I was able to speak with them every day and I had to use the language everyday in interactions. I rarely spoke English.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • My host family!
  • The country!
* What could be improved?
  • Planning the classes which you will take and making sure they fit what credits you need.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do it!!