Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Exploring Veterinary Medecine through the adventure of Costa Rica Past Review

By (Boston College) - abroad from 06/06/2016 to 06/27/2016 with

Broadreach: Costa Rica - Veterinary Medicine College Summer Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained so much from the academic portion from hands on learning to in the classroom lectures. I can honestly say I retained more from my trip abroad then I do in a normal school year. It was so practical and hands on the learning felt natural. Other than academics, I learned how to carry myself while with peers and in a new culture. I learned to try new foods and integrate into a new way of life. I also learned the value of a raincoat in a rainforest climate! The entire experience was so worthwhile and I am still learning from the experience even though I have been back for some time now.

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.

This trip was an intensive look into Veterinary medicine. It allowed one to immerse oneself in medical jargon and classroom lectures similar to those in vet school. It is great exposure to anyone interested in veterinary medicine.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The leaders and everyone were so kind and willing to help. Everyone was working to make sure that the students were gaining the most out of every experience.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in a variety of locations from glamping sites to hotels of the campus of a university to beautiful homes within a wilderness resort. All of the accommodations were state of the art and perfect for our needs.

* Food:

First of all, I ate way too much! The food in Costa Rica is amazing! It was to be in another country with new foods and experiences! Lots of rice and beans with every meal! Also, the restaurants were awesome and the group favorite was the snack bag!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I think Broadbeach did a really nice job integrating the culture of Costa Rica, while also creating an educational environment regarding veterinary medicine. We had time to explore the city we stayed in, as well as go on adventures all of the country. It was a great way to explore interests, but also new cultures and locals.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

We did not run into many issues with healthcare for the students, but sadly one of our leaders needed medical care and found it was easily accessible at many different spots. The hospital was nice

* Safety:

Overall, I felt safe at every point. At some point in the cities, men would call out inappropriate things, but as long as you ignored them, there was no threat.

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

First and foremost, this trip furthered my desire to be a veterinarian. It allowed for hands on experience in the field and structured lectures. It gave insight into a possible future and furthered my desire to pursue this career path. Not only did I find my passions through veterinary medicine, I also gained 7 new close friends and mentors. I was able to explore Costa Rica with great friends and a time full of adventure and academic exploration.

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? The program includes all food and snacks. The only money spent was on an alcoholic beverage at dinner or souvenirs for yourself.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Broadbeach does a good job in the upfront costs and covering pretty much everything. The only thing I would say is to bring money to buy things to bring home, but to be smart in where you buy and to make sure you are getting a fair price in the country.

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

We were working with many people who spoke very good English, but throughout the trip we learned lots of new words and practiced with the locals.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? AP 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? I think the best way to practice is to listen to your surroundings when you arrive. It will be easy to pick things up and ask locals for help in trying to say things. The more you use it in the country and try not revert back to English, the more comfortable and natural it will get.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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 hands on animal experience
  • The relationships I formed
  • The experiences within the country (little adventures mixed in)
* What could be improved?
  • The timing the day of the final exam and the long activity we had the entire day.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The trip is structured to be a learning environment for every experience level. It is important to know that everyone has a place to learn and your group will become a team. The group will encourage each other and create an amazing learning environment. I also wish I knew to pack lightly because laundry was averrable throughout and you will be carrying your suitcase a lot.

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!