Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Nothing but Pura Vida Past Review

By (Salem State University) - abroad from 05/21/2016 to 06/18/2016 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I strengthened my knowledge and command of the Spanish language so much! I also learned about the beautiful culture that lies in Costa Rica. From the 'tican phrases to the beautiful beaches and volano's I had an experience that I would not change for the world.

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.

For such a short time period I can honestly say I learned so much. The teachers at ULATINA are really great.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The host family played such a key part in my experience. They made me feel welcome in this new environment.

* Food:

Gallo pinto! It's used so much in dishes and it's so good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Take the bridge to school, it was built especially for that.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

SOL is different from other programs in that you get a sense of family and a home away from home. You get fully immersed into the culture, which though overwhelming at first, you start to get the hang of without even noticing. It is so worth it, given the availability and opportunity I would do it again. Take advantage of this opportunity! Respect those around you, remember you are here to grow and learn, and have fun because you are in COSTA RICA! Pura vida me :)

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)

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? Budget amounts weekly, and don't buy the first thing you see unless you love it. Went shopping for water shoes once and it was $40 or more in most places, and then I found it for $2.

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

We were always encouraged to speak the language.

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? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? High school level Spanish course
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? Talk to locals! Some of the best practice that I had was when I asked a local a question about something or did a cultural activity with them and it really really makes a difference than just talking with friends or at school.

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

  • 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?
  • The language
  • the culture
  • the excursions!!
* What could be improved?
  • They could offer another trip during the free weekend. I liked the concept and having that option available but a trip to Guanacaste or something would have been cool.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Plan early for the free weekend! There are so many places to go that it can be a bit overwhelming the closer you get. So plan early, less stress and better prices. Also, bring an umbrella or raincoat. I was told to bring my raincoat and it has been so helpful for this time of year.