Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

One of the best experiences of my life. Past Review

By (Spanish and Music Education, University of Arkansas - Fayetteville) - abroad from 06/06/2013 to 08/02/2013 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained language fluency, cultural knowledge, wonderful friends, and a world perspective.

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.

Universidad Latina had the appropriate accreditation and I was able to get credit for each of my classes. No one had used SOL at my university before, but the study abroad office was very helpful and everything worked out great.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Obey the rules and don't be stupid.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My family was fantastic. My mama Tica and her husband didn't speak English, which was fantastic for practicing my Spanish. Their sons did speak English and were very nice. Their house was nice and the food was awesome.

* Food:

It takes a while for your guts to get used to digesting so much gallo pinto, but buy some prunes and you'll probably be good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was aware I am a Gringo and I was treated different in some cases. But, everyone in public was nice and I was comfortable going around and speaking Spanish in public.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had an earache, so I went to the pharmacy and got some pills that helped. My roomate had some more severe issues and he was well taken care of by doctors.

* Safety:

Obey the rules and stay in groups! It seems robbery is more frequent than attacks or injuries, but be careful, especially at night and you should be fine.

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)

Bring spending money and money for independent excursions. The independent excursions are the most expensive things, but they're worth it. (this was not program sponsored, just travel on our own time)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Maybe 40 or 50?
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat meals at home whenever you can, Your parents will probably also be willing to pack you a lunch.

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

I used it at home and in public a ton. The students did use a lot of English together.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Senior level Spanishs Lit. Classes
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 use the language in public and use it with your classmates as much as you can.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • info about getting a tico phone
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring spending money and don't be scared, be smart, observant, and careful. Have fun!

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!