Costa Rica through Sol Education was an unforgettable experience! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was reasonable. I participated in the Spanish Immersion program, so all of my work was related to learning the language. That was my ultimate goal, so it was all very enjoyable in the end.

On-site administration of your program

Janiva Cifuentes-Hiss was our program director in Costa Rica. She was awesome and fun. There really wasn't much to worry about, because she would continually give us plans, updates, and instructions whenever necessary. Also, whenever there was any kind of issue, problem, question, whatever it may be, she was there to help with translating, encouraging, or even just to joke and laugh!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was very pleased with my home and host family in Costa Rica. They were very accepting of me and abundantly helpful in teaching me the Spanish language. I immediately became another daughter to my host mom.

Our host families provided most of our meals. The food was slightly different than what I am used to in the States, but my host mom was a good cook, and I enjoy trying new things.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Several excursions and cultural activities are included as part of this program, and I really feel that helped to be able to see several parts of the country that I may not have discovered otherwise. We went white water rafting, and got to stand at the edge of a volcano crater... just to name a few. I also really enjoyed the Latin dance classes!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I personally did not have any health issues during my study abroad experience (minus getting car sick one time), but when things did come up with other students, they were handled immediately and the medical coverage for the program was reasonable. As far as safety, I was aware ahead of time that theft is one of the biggest issues in the country. But knowing this, one just has to always be cautious of what you are carrying on you and how you carry it. I did not have any personal issues with theft while I was in Costa Rica. I would say however... watch where you are walking. It is not at all uncommon for there to be random holes (or even gaps/ditches) in the sidewalk. You could hurt yourself easily if you fell in one.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I lived with a host family who only spoke Spanish, so I had to speak Spanish daily. I had Spanish classes during the day. The only times I could really speak English were with other students in the program or over Skype to communicate with people back home. There was no choice but to learn Spanish, and that is what I was looking for!

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• Host Family

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• Host Family