Magically Meaningful Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Our program did not include a formal academic component. The community outreach opportunities were amazing though!

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Loved, loved, loved! Living with my host family! They were absolutely sweet and open and welcoming.

DELICIOUS!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

im·mer·sion, state of being deeply engaged or involved; absorption. If you're looking to learn about yourself, humanity, and a different culture through experiences and engaging opportunities, consider Sol Education Abroad. When Sol Education Abroad says it's an immersion program, they are not only talking about the scheduled programs and excursions. As students do life with their host families, wait for the bus at the bus stop, purchase snacks from the local supermarket, order delicious Costa Rican food from restaurants, they are absorbed into the culture and language. This incredibly short but impactful experience has confirmed my decision to work with women and children in the international setting. What I greatly appreciated about this experience was the mentality of partnering and serving the community in areas they wanted help instead of us planning everything ahead beforehand. That was a necessary reminder for all of us that we were there to learn while serving. I loved learning about fair trade, and it has made me more vigilant in shopping with care. Come prepared to serve in any way possible because this trip is not about being a hero or helping others the way you want to help. SOL has reinforced the idea that service learning doesn't happen when you are only interacting with children in a school or when visiting community centers; it happens as you walk down the streets of San Jose, when you cook and wash dishes with your host family, when you appreciate the rain forest by reducing the amount of disposable products used, or when you buy products that directly support artists and workers. Be ready to have your perspective challenged and shifted for the better! I liked how holistic the program was. From exposure to the larger Costa Rican culture, history, present practices regarding consumerism, to the smaller customs our host families practice, this program engaged students in the complexities of Costa Rican life. Rain forests and rescue centers were also amazing in raising mindfulness and awareness of our environment. Lastly, but not least, Janiva and Fiorella were absolutely crucial in how successful the trip turned out. Their constant passion to serve others including us, the students, was evident and endless. Absolutely humbled and inspired.

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

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

Select all that apply

• Americans

• The host family
• The intentional activities
• the directors

• N/A

The Networker