An experience you'll never forget Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall it's a good balance between academics and fun experiences. Each class lasts for 3 weeks, and class is conducted for 3 hours a day Monday through Friday. While there was homework, it was never too much to handle and it was helpful in building Spanish skills.

On-site administration of your program

The program directors are absolutely amazing and I loved any encounters with them! They are excited about their jobs, which makes all of the activities exciting for participants. Everything was always clear, information was provided ahead of time, and if there were any changes they would let us know!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I really liked my host mom, but the living arrangement wasn't as great as it was for most people. I shared a small room and bunk beds with my roommate, and although we got along well sometimes I just wanted a little more space to myself. I adjusted, though, and tried to stay open to any situation since studying abroad is a unique experience in itself.

The food in Costa Rica is absolutely amazing. There is so much fresh fruit. If you don't like rice and beans, this definitely isn't the place to go because they are definitely staples in the diet. I only gave it 4 stars because I didn't have the best "traditional Costa Rican food" experience (I ate pizza at least once a week with my host family, and had a lot of sandwiches), which I was looking forward to, but I think some people would have been happier experiencing that.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There are weekly conversation clubs with local students to help you mingle with locals. Most of the effort to integrate is put on you, though. Classes are taken only with other students in the Sol program that are studying abroad. The homestay definitely helps you integrate with the local culture. I got to experience a Costa Rican church service, meet some of the extended family, etc.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any experiences, but the people I knew that went to the doctor, etc. didn't have any issues!

They warn you a lot about crime in the area, but they also help prepare you to know how to avoid it. I definitely wouldn't want to walk around alone at night, but taxis are cheap, most of the students live near each other so it's easy to go somewhere with a group, and only a few people had incidents. Just don't go anywhere alone at night, take taxis if you're in an unfamiliar place (especially at night) and always be cautious of your surroundings.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I spent an average of $75 per week while I was there (not including the cost of a big weekend trip to Nicaragua, but including other weekend trips). Bring snacks that you like the most from the U.S. You will crave them and it will save you money (and space on the way back) if you bring them with you. I bought a lot of food for myself even though 3 meals were included every day, and that was the majority of my expenses. Most weekend trips can be done for about $50 or less including bus fare, hostel expenses, and a few meals if you budget properly.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Classes were taught completely in Spanish, most host parents didn't even know English. However, among Sol participants we hardly ever used Spanish.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

• The people
• The excursions

• Food provided
• Schedule of events

The Academic or Linguist