Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

It was unforgettable. Past Review

By (The Woodlands College Park High School) - abroad from 06/24/2018 to 07/08/2018 with

Outward Bound Costa Rica: Girl Scouts Destinations in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I recently took a service challenge trip through OBCR with thirteen other girls and not only gained life long friends, but also increased my cultural awareness and self confidence. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to go on an unforgettable trip with OBCR like I did.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

This tripped broadened my cultural awareness and allowed me to pursue my love of the Spanish language.

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? I spent $150 over the course of two weeks on souveniors and food.

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

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? Spanish IV
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? Be open to the language and put yourself in situations to talk with others.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
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?
  • Speaking with the Bri-Bri children
  • Meeting life long friends
* What could be improved?
  • Transportation
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The strenuous exercise

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!