As a first-time study abroad student, I would have to say I was super nervous about living in Costa Rica for two weeks. Nervous about flights, not being a native Spanish speaker, the food (I love food), being away from home, living with new people. It was surreal to me until we landed in beautiful San Jose. It was beautiful. We toured the city, viewed the shops and markets, saw historical buildings like the national theatre, ate fruits like mango and soursop before we settled into our cozy hotel. This experience exceeded my expectations! I did things that I have never done before, tried foods that I never ate (they were delicious by the way), and lived a completely different life.
We water-rafted down Pacuare river, saw volcanoes and mountain ranges, banana fields, hiked through the most beautiful rainforest with so much biodiversity! Can you believe we saw sloths! The Blue morpho butterfly was so big and blue, you could see it three meters away! We also visited Cahuita and Culebra Bay coral reefs; two reefs on opposites sides of the country. It was so endearing to see this ecosystem in person and not behind a class wall! How cool was it for us to be swimming collecting data and see a green sea turtle going past?! To study abroad is to immerse yourself in the country you are studying. I learned so many interesting things about Costa Rica.
This trip changed my world view and helped guide me on the career path that I was contemplating. After visiting Costa Rica I am for sure that this has changed my life. Our teachers Dr. Gaskill, Dr. Palomino, tour guide Pedro and driver Tony were exceptional at being knowledgeable, keeping us safe, on-time for our events, being accommodating, and answering any questions you may have all while we were learning.

Thanks to Ms. Gloria, Mr. Frank, and the Study Abroad Association for making the application process run smoothly and giving this opportunity to their students. If you ever needed convincing on studying abroad, THIS IS IT! It was the best thing I could have done for myself, and if they asked me to do it again, I would!
– D’Anna, SPC Costa Rica (Tropical Ecology) Study Abroad Program, May 2024