Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Let's go again Past Review

By (University of Texas - San Antonio) - abroad from 06/03/2017 to 07/15/2017 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned that we are so fortunate with what we have in the states and take it for granted. In Costa Rica there is not much, but family is what keeps them going and simply being alive everyday is a gift.

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.

Best decision I ever made.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The country was beautiful. I made a great choice by picking that country

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The host family I stayed with were very kind and I was able to bond with me every day. I really miss them now being in the states, but I am happy I am still in contact with them:)

* Food:

Personally I am a very picky eater so it was difficult to adapt to all the healthy foods. But honestly they were very delicious.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I liked that Spanish was everywhere. Definitely improved my speaking abilities more.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

They were very organized and understanding in every situation. Sol education took care of any situation properly and made the program a lot of fun. Definitely recommend choosing them

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
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? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 4003 spanish
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? If you make friends in your targeted language, keep speaking to them on a daily. You'll see how much it can help you.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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 people
* What could be improved?
  • More activities
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? we have free weekends, didn't manage money well

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.