Pura Vida, Costa Rica! Past Review

By Samantha C (Spanish Language and Literature., The College of New Jersey) for

ISA Study Abroad in San José, Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

I learned so much during my time abroad, both academically and personally. I developed a love for traveling, formed incredible friendships, and improved my Spanish. I would encourage everyone to go!

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 learned so much during my time abroad - both in and out of the classroom! At Veritas University, I was able to take a full course load in Spanish. The classes and faculty were challenging enough that I learned a lot but also relaxed enough that I was able to spend a lot of time exploring the country!
* Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program	The staff in Costa Rica was great at introducing our program to Costa Rica! The first three weekends, they led group trips to different attractions in the country. It helped students become comfortable traveling and was great for bonding with other students abroad. Throughout the semester, they continued to be accessible and helpful.
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?	Living with a host family was one of the greatest aspects of my experience abroad! My host Mom helped me practice my Spanish, adapt to the city, and allowed me to learn cultural aspects about Costa Rica - including the cooking!
* Food:	Living with a host family allows you to experience the local cuisine first hand! Host families are very accommodating and very generous!
* Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture?	I formed incredible friendships and had amazing adventures while abroad. ISA held three weekend trips at the beginning of the program, which really helped students bond. Every weekend afterward was used to travel in groups and explore Costa Rica. In addition, Veritas University held a number of cultural events for students during the week such as salsa lessons.
* Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program?
* Safety:	Healthcare: ISA was very helpful when I was sick and arranged to bring me to the clinic on the same day. Safety: The neighborhood did not feel as safe as I was hoping, but with a few adjustments (arranging for the van to take us to school and coordinating group taxi rides) everything was fine and the experience was enjoyable!
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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component?	Yes
Language acquisition improvement?	There is no substitute for study abroad when learning a foreign language! I was already at an advanced Spanish level before traveling to Costa Rica, but living there allowed me to practice in everyday interactions and at home. It really helped me to become fluent!
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?