Bad Past Review

By (Rowan University) - abroad from 10/01/2017 to 12/22/2017 with

ISA Study Abroad in San José, Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
nothing

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

ello, my name is Jared Boyer. I recently studied abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica. My experiences were far from great, and I had troubles that were demeaned by ISA (International Study Abroad). Although my issues were serious, ISA takes no part in accommodating the student, but rather put their reputations first. Unfortunately, my roommate and I were subject to Sexual Harassment and many instances of abuse, both which were unaddressed by ISA. On many occasions, our health was put in jeopardy and at risk. We were placed in a University where academics are not prioritized, and there was zero structure regarding classes. Moreover, ISA does not accommodate those with disabilities. I would strongly advise students to never use ISA.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Takes 6 months to be reimbursed

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? nothing
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The food
* What could be improved?
  • Everything
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? to not use ISA