Why don't I live there? Past Review
By Alex L (Journalism., University of Kentucky) - abroad from 07/21/2012 to 08/04/2012 with
Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica
What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I'm fearless now. I'm so much more open-minded. I feel like I can conquer any struggle in my life because nothing is scarier than being dropped into a country, into a HOUSE, where your language isn't the primary. Nothing tests your wits better than that. It was completely worthwhile.
Personal Information
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | None |
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
|
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) |
|
* Was housing included in your program cost? | Yes |
* Was food included in your program cost? | Yes |
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $125 |
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | I always got out in cash exactly how much I planned on spending each week so that I didn't overspend! |
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? | SPA 310 |
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? | Don't be afraid to look stupid. People generally will want to help you! |
Other Program Information
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
|
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? |
|
* What could be improved? |
|
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I had known that English was spoken more. It would have calmed my nerves a bit. |
Featured Program Providers