Costa Rica: Learning in the Rainforest Past Review

By (Science of Earth Systems, SUNY - Binghamton) for

SUNY Binghamton: Traveling - Tropical Forest Workshop

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes. I learned a LOT about the environment and earth processes. Also, we learned much about the human component.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Cabin in the forest. Month-long epic adventure.

* Food:

Wish rice and beans weren't so harsh on the old digestive system.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Semi-accessible facilities. The term don't be stupid comes to mind. Adhere to this and you'll be fine.

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? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? He covers almost everything in the syllabus.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
Language acquisition improvement?

It's ok, I didn't really want to learn Spanish anyways.

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* 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? Have fun.