Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Experience of a Lifetime! GO SOL Past Review

By (Grand Valley State University) - abroad from 08/30/2014 to 12/20/2014 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
One of the most amazing experiences of my life. I learned a different way of life, and it opened my eyes to a new culture. Would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

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.

All of the language professors were very helpful and were always eager to help us learn Spanish. The class times were great as well. For one of my classes with locals, the professor canceled class many times, and it took a while for the university to intervene. However, this is no reflection on the Sol Program, and my director was very willing to address the issues with the university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The directors are absolutely amazing. They go above and beyond. They go out of their way to help you, are there for you 24/7, and always encourage you to speak Spanish.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was highly satisfied. I loved my host family so much, and they really made me feel like I was at home during my time in Costa Rica.

* Food:

The food was always well-made, and I ate alot! Rice can get monotonous, but that is part of the culture.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We had fun cultural activities every week that we could do. You never had the excuse to be bored. There were always things you could be involved, like volunteering, or conversation club with locals. I only wish I could have had deeper relationships with more locals here, perhaps like conversation partners throughout the semester.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I only had one health care issue, and my director took me to the doctor, and walked me through the whole process. It was an easy and smooth process.

* Safety:

Heredia is a pretty safe city. You are told many safety tips upon arrival, and it is always best to walk with someone else. Also, it is best to take a taxi once it gets dark. However, I had no safety incidents while being here.

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)

I probably spent too much money while I was here, but I also traveled almost every weekend. If you are on a tight budget, you can easily stay on budget since all meals are prepared for you, you may just not be able to travel as much.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Stay at hostels when you travel. Make your food in the kitchens there instead of going out every meal.

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 have improved immensely! I just wouldn;t go as far to say that I am fluent, because there is still so much to learn!

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? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? SPA 380
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? You have to make the choice to speak Spanish to your friends. It is completely up to you how much you are going to improve. Also, don't get frustrated, learning a language doesn't happen automatically when you come into the country, it takes time!

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

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Host Family
  • Most helpful directors
  • Many excursions included in program cost
* What could be improved?
  • More opportunities to build relationships with locals
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Learning a language takes time! Be open to new experiences, and it will be amazing, so you don't have to be nervous!

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!