Physical Therapy Shadowing in Costa Rica

I went into this experience not knowing what to expect. I ended up having some of the best 3 weeks I've ever had and learned so much I can take with me through my career. Between ziplining, party boats, and waterfalls on the weekends and weekdays full of PT shadowing, this trip was filled with educational and adventurous opportunities and had a great balance. Heading into the trip not knowing anyone was intimidating but it got me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to prove to myself what I am capable of. I am so glad I had the opportunity to join Toucan Abroad; it will impact me for many years.

This was one of the best experiences I have had. At first, I was very hesitant to join the program due to financial concerns and a bit nervous about traveling outside the country. But it was one of the best investments. I heard about this program from a friend and wanted to give it a try myself as you get to be a lot more hands-on in Costa Rica than in the states. The therapists are very patient and treat you like family. I learned much more in three weeks than I had in three months as a PT technician. It was fascinating being with other students from across the US who are also interested in being physical therapists and they soon became family. Phil and Fernando are one of the best human beings in this world and will help you with anything they need! I highly recommend this program, and if you feel hesitant like I, just do it! Once is a lifetime experience!

This program takes students from all over the US and brings them together. I have made 20 new friends from far and wide across the US that I have no doubt I will keep in touch with. Being immersed in a different culture and language while also learning how your profession works in a different part of the world is something you can’t find anywhere else. Mini weekly excursions and long weekend getaways are the best way to get to know your new friends along with learning a new language by immersing yourself in the clinics with physical therapists! You will come out of this program with a ton of new friends, new experiences, and 60+ shadowing hours to put towards your DPT school applications!! The work hard play hard mentality is what will get you through this program and it will change your life completely! We went from a group of 21 complete strangers to a family in a matter of 3 weeks and I wouldn’t trade them for the world.

My Toucan Abroad experience in Costa Rica was the most amazing trip I have ever been on. The entire group of students on the trip got along amazing, and we were all so close by the end of the 3 weeks. My experience in the clinics was exceptional. Not all the therapists I worked with spoke English, but even if they did not, they used translator apps or other ways to communicate. Each therapist I worked with was a genuinely kind human and taught me so much! I was able to get much more hands on experience during these 3 weeks than I ever have in the states. The clinics are all very easy to find and travel to! Along with the shadowing, we had lots of free time to plan mini excisions and get away for long weekends. Some things I did during the week was visit hot springs, go zip lining, hiking, exploring a waterfall, playing board games in the hotel, and so much more. During the weekends we traveled to the coasts and were able to hit the beach, go on a catamaran, hike, hang out with the group at air bnb/hotel, go out for food and enjoy some drinks, plus so much more! The directors of Toucan Abroad, Phil and Fernando, are two of the most amazing people I have ever met. They helped us plan all of our mini excursions, as well as our large weekend trips. They were both willing to help out in any way possible with no questions asked. They truly created the best experience possible for each and every one of the students of the trip! I recommend this trip to anyone who wants an Abroad experience!

Studying abroad with ToucanAbroad was one of the most impactful things for my career, networking, and relationships. Experiencing different PT techniques than generally accustomed to helps broaden the perspective of the limitless possibilities of this career. Aside from using skills and knowledge, this study program helps create new and lasting friendships as well as expanding horizons for travel. Overall, ToucanAbroad has helped push me out of my comfort zone to try new things & meet new people.

Let me start off by saying, this was truthfully the best experience ever. I have gained so much knowledge from the therapists that I have shadowed with, I gained a greater perspective of lens of the world by being here for the ample amount of time. In addition, I gained a family from the session! The directors of the program were the cherry on top and definitely made the experience even more cherishing. Studying abroad not only has given me a new appreciation of other cultures, but it has taken me out my comfort zone in so many great ways. If you are questioning to study abroad, or are scared too, JUST DO IT!!! you won’t regret a thing, and you will gain so much more than you know! <3

Hands down one of the most incredible experiences of my life. To begin, anyone who may be skeptical or hesitant to participate in this program, rest assured it is legit. At first glance this program may seem too good to be true, especially since there are not many Physical Therapy study abroad programs, but it is real and so worth taking a chance on! Toucan abroad provided an exciting and safe environment that allowed its students to truly immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s rich culture. Phil and Fernando were super fun and helpful! They were always willing to suggest fun things to do or great places to eat. The therapists were amazing as well! They were super eager to teach us their techniques and answer any of our questions. There was also no need to worry about the language barrier, as the therapists were excited to be able to practice their English, and they would also use google translated if needed. Overall the three weeks I experienced in Costa Rica with Toucan Abroad was better than I would have ever imagined! ¡Pura Vida!

Going on Toucan Abroad was one of the best decisions that I have made. It is such a unique experience that allows you to get hands on experience while exploring Costa Rica at the same time. All of the physical therapists are so welcoming and make sure you get the most out of your time in their clinics. Not only did I walk away from this experience with a much deeper knowledge of physical therapy I also met such amazing people along the way. I recommend it his program to anyone who is interested in PT