Purda Vida Costa Rica Past Review

By (EC-6, Stephen F. Austin State University) for

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA): Traveling - Cross-Cultural Learning, Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
YES! I learned how to be emerged in a different culture. I will be able to understand a little bit of how future ESL students might feel in my classroom.

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.

The workload was very manageable, the classroom was set up in a discussion mode.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I think the program size was a bit large, but it was definitely manageable. The professors were always willing to help.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Be ready for cold showers and bugs. The owners of the hotels were very friendly and willing to help. Extra towels are a luxury.

* Food:

The food was delicious! Everything the professor recommended was fabulous.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Going out for girls night, seeing the national parks, and laying out on the beach.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt completely safe throughout the trip.

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? $400
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Drinks are very expensive and souvenirs are also very expensive if you do not dicker.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

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 did you like most about the program?
  • People
  • Scenery
  • Food
* What could be improved?
  • Hotels
  • Bugs
  • Showers
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring extra bug spray and ready yourself for a wonderful experience!