Costa Rica Shapes My Greener Future Past Review

By (Biology, General., Rollins College) for

Rollins College: Traveling - First Year Field Study: Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My experience was definately worth-while. The experience opened my eyes to the complexities of developing nations and how all facets of life (cultural, political, environmental, etc.) must be addressed. I definatley enjoyed experience the biodiversity of the region, especially knowing that some of the species I saw are native only to Costa Rica.

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.

n/a

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

n/a

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Didn't need to bring anything to settle in, outlets were available everywhere we stayed, beautiful, mostly sustainable (which supports the class' reason for going to CR in the first place)

* Food:

Food was usually very good, rice&beans got a little repetitive

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I always felt safe

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $60
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? make sure you have cash for the departure tax and the driver

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? students with an interest in the environment