Amazing program! Past Review
By A student (Missouri State University) - abroad from 01/05/0012 to 04/21/2012 with
Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica
I grew a lot both in my Spanish experience and as a person. I really learned what it means to be Pura Vida. It was one of the greatest times of my life!
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The classes I took through SOL (Advanced Spanish I and II, Civilization) were mainly discussion based. This allowed us to practice a lot of Spanish and not be too overwhelmed with lengthy homework assignments. My classes with locals (Theater and Administration) were more challenging, but definitely worth it (also a great way to meet more locals). |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Our program director, Janiva, was very educated, student-focused, and helpful with everything! |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My host family was absolutely amazing. Very nice accommodations and my host mom is one of the kindest people I know, always making sure we were happy and healthy. |
| * Food: |
My host mom made delicious, healthy food for every meal! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I was able to meet a number of locals throughout my time there, however it is likely you will also spend a lot of time just with your group members. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| * Was housing included in your program cost? | Yes |
| * Was food included in your program cost? | Yes |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Find hostels when travelling |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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| 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? | Advanced Spanish II |
| 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? | USE IT! Especially with your group members - it is easy to fall back to using English, but don't! Hanging out with locals is a great way too. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I had a really hard time choosing a program - I went through websites and brochures for months and months. I think it is good to find a program that suits your needs but also just to make whatever place you choose your own. I would say that I was extremely impressed by SOL and would recommend it to anyone! |
