The Costa Rican Experience with AIFS Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The Spanish classes were completely immersive. Every day we had four hours of Spanish classes that were completely experience based, so we talked for four hours! Additionally, we were required to interact with the Costa Rican people to complete Spanish class assignments. I learned Spanish more quickly through this type of learning than I did back in the United States. The other courses I took were interesting in that most of them had field trips included in the course schedule. Going to a large university, we do not have the resources to take class field trips. The opportunity to actually see first hand what we were learning in our classes was really wonderful.

On-site administration of your program

AIFS has offices on-site at every location. I can say without a doubt that all of my questions were answered and my needs were meet by the office. It was a welcoming place to stop by and helped all of the international students navigate a new country. They truly went above and beyond what was expected- even helping me set my dad up with a wonderful rainforest tour when he came to visit.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

As wonderful as the classes and the opportunity to explore Costa Rica was, my favorite part of my experience was my host family. They take the time to consider your preferences as a student and match you well with a host family. My host family was welcoming, supportive, and an essential part of my time abroad. I had my own bedroom and bathroom, which is not always the case, but was a wonderful perk!

As much as I loved the food, my taste buds were not used to the Costa Rican style of eating. The fruit and coffee was absolutely delicious, however I did not like some of the sauces used on some of the dishes. However, I will say that I never went hungry. AIFS and my host family ensured that I was well- fed through the duration of the program! Also, there are lots of cost-effective restaurants and cafés right next to the university.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Living with a host family, I was brought quickly up to speed with the Costa Rican culture and lifestyle.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did unfortunately get sick during my stay in Costa Rica. Luckily, the AIFS on-site office was there to help. They not only set up the appointment for me, but came with me to the doctor, and went to the pharmacy afterwards with me. I am studying public health, so it was interesting to me to see a different health care system first hand. Of course, when I returned from the doctor, my host mom was there waiting with a large bowl of soup! I did receive vaccines going abroad- I had a flu shot and took the yellow fever pills. They were recommended but not required for participation in the program.

I never felt unsafe in Costa Rica. I even got to a point towards the end of the trip where I felt comfortable utilizing the bus system alone. In terms of safety, I would tell people the same thing that I tell people in the United States- be very aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

AIFS gave me the support and resources I needed but also the freedom to explore and grow while abroad.

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

I recommend to everyone that they see a financial advisor (if their university offers one) prior to going abroad. I spent about $100 some weeks and more/less of that other weeks depending on where I was traveling.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

While you did not need to know the Spanish language well to be in Costa Rica, it was encouraged to practice. My host family only spoke Spanish to me- so I learned very quickly!

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• Host Family

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• International Students
• Host Family

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• International Students

• Host Family
• Travel Opportunities
• Classes

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