Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Life changing experience Past Review

By (University of Missouri - Saint Louis) - abroad from 01/16/2016 to 04/23/2016 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This experience will absolutely influence my life going forward in every aspect. I have learned that what is truly important is not work or money, it is people. People are everything in this world, and I am nothing without my friends and family. Before coming to Costa Rica I found myself always stressed out. Working and studying filled up my entire week and I hated it. Coming to Costa Rica has taught me to lead a less stressful life, enjoy the moments with those you love, and to worry less. The greatest benefits of this experience is gaining so many amazing friendships. I have enjoyed having conversations with every person in SOL, and have learned so much from those around me. Each person brought their own taste of the world, and parts of everyone will be left with me for the rest of my life. Whether it was the first dip into the ocean at Punta Mona, going down the waterslide at La Fortuna, or parasailing in Manuel Antonio, each time ended in a great experience. I thank them for pushing me past my comfort zone, as it helped me overcome my fear and to grow as a person.

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)

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? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I enjoyed all of the friendships that I made and the experiences we shared together.
* What could be improved?
  • It's very difficult for me to answer this question as I loved every aspect of the program.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I learned how important it is to challenge yourself on a daily basis, and be willing to take risks.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.