Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Greastest Decision I EVER Made Past Review

By (University of Houston) - abroad from 05/13/2017 to 06/24/2017 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned more Spanish in 6 weeks than I ever would have here in Houston, and I am surrounded by Hispanic culture here. I made friends for a lifetime and gained an appreciation for a culture other than my own.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The staff was amazing, excursions were well put together, and the instructors were incredible

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Janiva and her staff were spot on. They were always organized and kept up with communication and keeping us busy

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My family was so kind and inviting. They truly made me feel at home in such an unfamiliar place

* Food:

You have to look for the right spots cause some places are better than others, but when you do you wont be disappointed.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I made so many friends. I wasn't ready to leave when that time came.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was never sick but I saw a few students who unfortunately weren't feeling too well, but they never missed more than one day of class and seemed better the next day

* Safety:

It is primarily safe, but I would avoid walking alone in the evenings especially if you are unfamiliar with the language.

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

Sol Education was amazing. I have not studied aboard with any other company but I can say Sol Education made that even harder for me to do because of how incredible this program was. I can honestly say I was never disappointed. I am actually planning to return for a full semester and I cant even think of applying with a different program.

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)

I was able to stretch my money, but it really depends on the individual. Some students like to go out to eat more than others, so that is going to cost you. But you are provided 3 meals a day by your host family so most of your spending isn't necessary. You could survive on $100/week easy if you are just smart and don't spend money on souvenirs and snacks.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200-$250

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

My host family only spoke to me in Spanish, and the instructors are native so their English was not the best. Spanish was highly encouraged because of that

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? Beginner 2
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Make friends with locals! It is the greatest way to utilize the language outside of the classroom and you get more of a native teaching instead of just a formal one.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The Friends I Made
  • The Courses
  • The Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • More cultural activites during the week
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't over pack.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!