Living in Costa Rica is unforgettable. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes weren't extremely tough. There wasn't quite the same level of expectations that my professors at my home university usually have.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration were wonderful! I loved getting to know them and they were very easy to work with, which was a real blessing. They helped me get my classes sorted on the first day and even later the first week when I needed to switch things around. They were very accommodating.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in a host home which I would recommend to everyone. It was an incredible experience getting to live in the home of a local family. My spanish improved significantly by talking with them, watching the news with them, living life with them, etc. I was very comfortable in the home and it ended up feeling like "my" home and "my" room. The family was also wonderful! Costa Ricans have a way of making everyone feeling welcome and at home!

The food is amazing, so long as you like rice and beans, which are pretty much a staple for every meal. I loved it! We always had a balanced meal. Fruit, bread, an egg, cereal in the mornings, lunch on campus, and then meat, beans, rice, salad, etc for dinner! It was great!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was interesting to realize that there are some aspects of Costa Rican culture that are very americanized, however, they also have their own distinct culture. Most notably in my opinion, the "coffee culture." I felt well integrated into the culture because I opened myself up and allowed myself to embrace it. It's a slower pace of life in Costa Rica, one focused more on building and maintaining relationships rather than finishing jobs as fast as possible.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any issues with health problems but when I had a general need, pharmacies and doctors were readily available and affordable. I heard from others that trips to the emergency room and clinic were quick and efficient, meaning they didn't have to wait around forever and were seen by the doctor quickly (which is way different compared to the States).

Never once in my host city (or any other city in Costa Rica) did I feel particularly unsafe. This is mainly because I was smart. That's the key. Don't travel alone, don't walk alone after dark, don't go out with people you don't know and trust. It's very simple when it comes to safety-be smart and you'll be fine. I found this to be the case in Costa Rica. (I was actually told several times that it is the safest Latin American country and I would have to agree. I felt safe.)

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

Breakfast and dinner were included in my program and I could get by on less than 10 dollars a day when it came to buying lunch, taking the bus and getting a snack. I found affordable ways to live in Costa Rica however it would have been nice to know that Costa Rica is the most expensive Latin American country going into the program.

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

We were always encouraged to speak spanish, there were reminders around the international office as well as in our host homes.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

• My group
• My host family
• The ease of traveling in and out of country

• Class structure (more structure)

The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer