Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Past Review

By (Elementary Education, New Mexico State University) for

Centro Panamericano de Idiomas (CPI): Flamingo Beach - CPI Language Center

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, my study abroad experience was worthwhile. I have leaned to appreciate more things and have been able to understand and appreciate other cultures because of this trip.

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.

I thought that the teaching methods varied from different campuses. I learned more from some teachers than others.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration was great. They got anything I needed done and were always willing to help. The program size was a little small but it was nice because the staff was able to learn who you were.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I felt safe in my neighborhoods, I especially liked the closeness from my house to the school. I was treated as a guest and a family member in different houses.

* Food:

My host mothers were great cooks and always made great food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

All of the field trips were neat and interesting and I learned a lot from the cultural events.

* Safety:

I didn't feel as safe in San Joaquin de Flores due to a robbery where a student was held up at gun point.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I didn't expect some trips to cost as much as they did.

Language

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

I was able to practice my new language with my professors in class and with my host families. I had to use Spanish constantly in Heredia with everyday interactions, but not in Monteverde or Flamingo due to all the tourism.

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Its definitely an unforgetable experience I feel everyone should be able to take.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

SPAN 325

Course Department: Hispanic Culture Civilization
Instructor: CPI Instructors
Instruction Language: Spanish
Comments: I thought that some classes were more challenging than others and often needed to change classes. I definitely participated more in class there than at my home institution.
Credit Transfer Issues: No, I had no issues.
Course Name/Rating:

SPAN 325
Course Department:
Instructor: CPI Instructor
Instruction Language: Spanish
Comments: This course was most beneficial, especially because I had one on one time with my professor where I was able to practice my conversation skills.
Credit Transfer Issues: No, I had no issues.