Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Sol Costa Rica was an incredible experience. Past Review

By (University of Houston) - abroad from 06/05/2017 to 08/03/2017 with

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
While learning Spanish I got to explore a new culture in a place that was completely foreign to me. It was absolutely worthwhile as I have had an incredible experience here and would highly recommend the program to anyone who is interested in studying abroad.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

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

My experience in Costa Rica was absolutely fantastic. My host family was beyond incredible and my Spanish improved dramatically. I can't imagine having a better experience anywhere else.

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? $20/week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? If you resist the urge to buy unnecessary things you shouldn't ever have any financial issues.

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? 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? Beginner 1
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? Converse with people whenever possible. It is by far the best way to practice and learn Spanish.

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
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?
  • Host Family
  • Professors
  • Interaction with local students
* What could be improved?
  • Better communication of the free time we have after the first session
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I just wish my Spanish was a bit better before coming here. It took me a couple weeks to get settled and get accustomed to hearing Spanish all the time.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!