Spanish & Sustainability Practices in Costa Rica: An Urban & Rural Experience

Overall, ICDS is a great academic abroad program. The housing is through host families within the community and my host family was fantastic. My host mom has been extremely patient and helpful with my Spanish and her food is delicious. You get a taste of the real culture of living with a Costa Rican family.

The academic portion is average, I enjoyed my classes although they seemed to overlap a bit. ICDS does an excellent job of planning staff-led field trips for the weekends. The site visits through ICDS were wonderful.

One of my critiques is the cost and vague presentation of the required student visa. I had to budget an additional $500 that was not included in the program fee.

Overall, I have had a great experience with ICDS and four months in Costa Rica is amazing in itself!

I live in a homestay close to the university. My family here is wonderful and always helps me with my Spanish and always makes me feel welcome in everyday conversations.

Not having class on Fridays has been a real benefit to living in a foreign country. This gives me a chance to explore this unknown country. With this day off, I am able to go places other than just outside my neighborhood and experience other ways of life and the various cultures around the country.

The only real difficulties I encounter are minimal. When I first arrived, I could not accurately portray what I was feeling due to the language barrier. However, through time in Spanish classes and the help of my host parents, I am more confident in my language skills. The other difficulty I have encountered is the never-ending cat-calls from the local men. In all honesty, I know I need to just get used to it, but it can be difficult at times.

The main thing to remember is, to continue speaking no matter how difficult it may be. Take advantage of this beautiful country and all it has to offer. Get to know the people and don't be afraid to try new things. Especially the food!

ICDS really helped me get adjusted, both socially and academically. I came to love the time that I spent in Costa Rica. Great program and I think I'd do it all over again, for sure.

It was really fun. Staying with host families gives you a whole new perspective on life in Costa Rica. All in all it was a great experience, one that i would truly remember for the rest of my life.