Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Uncomfortable experience , but a learning one Past Review

By (University of Houston - Downtown) - 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?
It was worthwhile - my learning experience was mainly adapting to a different lifestyle and being ok with it.

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.

The professors at the university were excellent and made us feel so welcome.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The faculty leaders were so helpful

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

They were good - it was nice to come home to cooked food and a clean bathroom

* Food:

The food was ok -

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Since I know the language it was not to difficult with the local culture

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No

* Safety:

I didn't feel so unsafe - only in certain areas

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

This experience helped me appreciate a lot of the things that we take for granted. It also allowed me to have an appreciation for the important things in life.

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)

Well I went with cash on hand - and I spent just that

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Yes make sure that you go with enough money

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
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? Spanish intermediate
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Speak it all at times

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Water rafting
  • Resort
  • School volunteer
* What could be improved?
  • We stopped to much for breaks
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is always good to go with people you know.

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.