Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best Experience Past Review

By (The Catholic University of America) - abroad from 05/16/2015 to 08/08/2015 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely. I learned so much spanish, the importance of being a global citizen, how to drink properly, and so much more.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Before I went abroad to Costa Rica I had little to no expectation. In reality, I was not particularly excited about going. I was just going to learn spanish and leave. However, once I arrived in Costa Rica I was greeted by two of the Sol Directors. Instantly, all my anxieties were washed away and I was excited to be there. Within the first week my spanish knowledge increased dramatically. The directors constantly were providing opportunities to explore the Costa Rican culture and practice my spanish. They challenged me inside the classroom, but more importantly outside of the classroom. Truly, Sol is a family. The directors and other students were always there for me through good and difficult times. If you don't choose to study abroad through Sol, you are missing out on an experience that will change your life completely.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

So much food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

A lot of cat calling but the directors help you deal with it.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I got sick there and they took me to the hospital. It's very expensive but you will get your money back if you go through your insurance.

* 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)

Depends.

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

5

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? Fluent
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? Get a notebook and write down new words. Hangout with the locals.

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?
  • Directors
  • Culture/Language
  • Other Students
* What could be improved?
  • Stop feeding me so much food
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I would never change my experience. Everything was great.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.