Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Summer experience in Costa Rica Past Review

By (Sociology/Business, Trinity University) for

Universidad Latina de Costa Rica: San Pedro - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
yes.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Grades were mostly based on exams a few assignments and a final presentation. Classes are three hours long and only meet once a week.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I only had contact with the person in charge of international studies at the Latina University in Costa Rica. She was always available on her office.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived at my house with my own family.

* Food:

I ate home-made food everyday. It was very good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The beaches are very nice.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I did't use a program.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Costa Rica is relatively cheap depending on the area where you live. The dollar exchange to colones is good.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
Language acquisition improvement?

Spanish is my first language so I didn't have a problem.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I did direct enrollment
* What could be improved?
  • I did direct enrollment.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Students who want to learn Spanish and experience life in a Latin country should definitely consider Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a beautiful place and has many places to visit. Costa Rican beaches are amazing, and there always something to do on the weekends. If you're interested in environmental studies of anything to do with the environment this is the perfect place to go.