
Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
AlumniMy parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...
Read Full Interview

MAXIMO NIVEL
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If you’ve been craving an adventure that combines meaningful service with unforgettable experiences, the Volunteer Adventure program in Costa Rica is the perfect fit! Spend 2 weeks exploring one of the most beautiful countries in Latin America while dividing your time between volunteering and adven
See All 5 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
See All 8 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
See All 17 ProgramsTravel For Teens
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Join us in Costa Rica for unforgettable memories and valuable service work! We will have the unique opportunity to perform 20 hours of valuable service work in two different communities. In La Fortuna we will work alongside the local association of Boy Scouts with various projects like planting tree
See All 12 ProgramsGapforce
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The ultimate adventure travel experience, gain high-quality training in Jungle Survival, Expedition Management, Wilderness Medicine, and Expedition Leadership on this unique and challenging personal development course! Since the first course in 2008, our Adventure Guide Training program has led the
See All 4 ProgramsGlobal Works
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Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome cho
See All 2 ProgramsARCC Programs
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The Costa Rica: Cloud Forest Community Initiative program offers the perfect mix of adventure and service. Whitewater raft through the lush rainforest of the Pacuare River, spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the way. Live in a remote cloud forest village, contributing to impo
See All 3 ProgramsPacific Discovery
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Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish throug
See All 3 ProgramsRustic Pathways
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Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni
Nosara Spanish Institute
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Study Spanish in Playa Guiones and make time for yoga in Nosara. Choose group or private Spanish at Nosara Spanish Institute, then fit yoga around your confirmed class timetable. The yoga supplement is USD 100 per week and provides five passes for classes at Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort, about a 10–15 mi
See All 3 ProgramsRaleigh International
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If you want a gap year or travel experience that’s full of tropical wildlife, diverse environments from rainforest to beaches, and the opportunity to be part of eco-tourism initiatives – Costa Rica is the one. Costa Rica is one of the great biological crossroads of the planet: rainforest, cloud fo
Arcos Journeys Abroad
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Travel to Costa Rica for a program rich in community service and eco-adventure. Experience the traditional town of Atenas, surrounded by verdant mountains. Immerse fully in the Costa Rican culture by living with a local family and engaging in community service projects and afternoon cultural worksho
Westcoast Connection
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Dive into the perfect balance of meaningful service projects, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures in this teen summer program. Travel to Costa Rica and work alongside some of our long-standing partners on projects such as building infrastructure in the Central Valley and helping cook fo
See All 2 ProgramsPutney Student Travel
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Join a welcoming host community in Costa Rica and take part in hands-on service projects that support local initiatives. Work alongside residents on small-scale construction, environmental efforts, and activities with local children, gaining insight into community life and Costa Rican culture. Betwe
Global Work & Travel
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Costa Rica Pura Vida is a 10-day small-group adventure through San José, Sarapiquí, Arenal, Río Celeste, Monteverde, Esterillos Beach, Uvita and Nauyaca Waterfalls, built for 18–35ish travellers who want rainforest, wildlife, beaches and social travel without planning it all themselves. Kick things
Intercultura Costa Rica
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Ready for the ultimate summer in Costa Rica? Our Teen Summer Adventure Camp is a chance to improve your Spanish while exploring tropical beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most incredible places on the planet. After your fun, active Spanish classes (both in the city and at our amaz
Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure
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The lively beach town of Santa Teresa is world famous for surf breaks across beaches pristine, uncrowded and seemingly endless. After surfing and sunbathing are over for the day – and Spanish lessons and surfing! – the town comes alive with funky surf shops, cafes, restaurants and nightspots for eve
See All 2 ProgramsGoBeyond Student Travel
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This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language sk
See All 2 ProgramsOutward Bound Costa Rica
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Experience an unforgettable adventure with fellow Girl Scouts from across the United States! Our GSUSA Destinations courses in Costa Rica and Panama will give you an opportunity to visit remote rainforest villages with family homestays, serve local communities, scuba dive among the colorful coral re
See All 4 ProgramsDiscover Corps
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Set in the lush Central Valley, this journey blends creativity, culture, and community all in the span of one long weekend. You’ll explore how Costa Ricans are reimagining sustainability—from artisans giving new life to retired airplane seats, to farmers cultivating cacao through regenerative practi
Located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is home to over five percent of the entire world's biodiversity.
La Fortuna. A small town located at the base of Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna is the gateway to adventure travel in Costa Rica. Travelers can choose from a variety of activities, including hiking the side of the volcano, rafting the Balsa River, canyoning in the Lost Canyon, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Arenal, and relaxing in the natural hot springs heated by the activity of the volcano.
Monteverde. Nestled between two cloud forests, you'll know you've arrived in Monteverde by the dramatic temperature shift and a change in scenery. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna of a misty rainforest, Monteverde is home to a complex ecosystem of over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, thousands of insects, and plant life that will enhance your Costa Rica adventures.
Manuel Antonio. Home to Manuel Antonio National Park, this Pacific Coast town is your best bet for spotting curious spider monkeys and sleepy sloths. If you want to learn to surf, Manuel Antonio's coastal beaches are known for being some of the best places in the world to do just that.
Adventure travel programs in Costa Rica lure people of all ages to create their perfect vacation, whether it be enjoying a relaxing stay on a picturesque beach or an adrenaline-pumping tour through the mysterious mountains.
From bungee jumping over the edge of a bridge to spelunking, there is no shortage of adventure in this small Central American country. Of all the adventure tours in Costa Rica, the most popular adventures are zip lining through the jungle trees and surfing the endless waves along the coast.
Eco-tours are amongst the best Costa Rica adventures out there. They will vary from adrenaline-packed activities, like extreme hiking and whitewater rafting to the more relaxing options, like night tours through the jungle and sunset catamaran cruises on the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Other adventure travel programs in Costa Rica include traversing the hanging bridges suspended high in the canopy of the jungles surrounded by clouds, or horseback riding along the rocky cliffs of the majestic mountains. Bird watching and night tours are also popular activities, offering visitors unique opportunities to glimpse several species of animals, some of which exist only within Costa Rica's enchanting cloud forests.
Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America, but can easily be traveled to on a budget. Both the local currency, called colones, and the U.S. dollar are widely accepted and dispensed via ATMs throughout the country. Be mindful of the current exchange rate as Ticos tend to use a standard 500 colones to $1 regardless of the actual market rate. It may, therefore, not work in your favor to spend U.S. dollars.
For the foodies on adventure travel in Costa Rica, cheaper meals can be found at sodas, a common inexpensive local eatery. A typical casado dish, consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat, will likely set you back $5 to $10. Tipping is not common in Costa Rica, unless you receive excellent service.
Adventure tours in Costa Rica will generally cost between $40 and $50, including transportation, a snack, beverages, and a guide. Public transportation is cheap, with an average bus ride within town costing less than $1. If you’re still worried about your potential travel expenses, consider creating a FundMyTravel campaign to raise extra money for your trip!
During adventure travel programs in Costa Rica, travelers receive the best of both worlds with its rich biodiversity and range of thrills. Adventurers can spend one day relaxing beachside with a warm Caribbean breeze blowing through their hair, fresh coconut in hand, and the next day zipline through the canopies, soaring above the trees with epic bird's-eye views. There aren't many other countries that can offer you quite the same range and beauty as Costa Rica.
Instagram photos and traveler stories often paint an idyllic picture of Costa Rica, but the country does have its challenges. One unexpected challenge for all accommodations is the poor plumbing throughout the country. Visitors and locals alike are expected to dispose of any used toilet paper in the bathroom wastebasket rather than the toilet, a habit that is hard to break when not accustomed to it.
With an ambitious goal of being carbon neutral by 2021, Costa Rica has raised the bar for global ecotourism and is the ideal destination for eco-friendly adventure travel. The unique biodiversity and vast variety of adventure activity options within this small Central American country provide the perfect backdrop for your next international adventure.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
Going on this trip to Costa Rica was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I had SOOOO much fun with all the activities, from ziplining and whitewater rafting to exploring the beaches and experiencing everything Costa Rica had to offer. Every day was filled with something exciting, and I made so many amazing memories that I will never forget. One of the best parts of the entire trip was meeting one of my best friends, who I still talk to every single day! I never expected to come home with a friendship that would mean so much to me, and that alone made the trip so special. The counselors also made the experience so much better. They were so fun, supportive, and welcoming, and they made everyone feel comfortable while making every activity even more enjoyable. Beyond all the adventures, the service work was such a meaningful part of the trip. It was incredibly special to see firsthand how our work made a direct impact on the communities we visited and to know that we were helping make a difference in people's lives. This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, service, personal growth, and friendship. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience abroad. I came home with amazing memories, a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and friendships that I will cherish forever. Pura Vida! ❤️
I LOVED this trip to Costa Rica!! I had never gone to Costa Rica before and loved all of the various activities we were able to do. We explored 2 different locations and did wildly different things in each place. Loved the adventures and learning how to surf.
This trip was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. It was my first TFT program, and I could have not picked a better one. One of my favorite parts was how much of Costa Rica we got to see. We did not just stay in one area and we got to experience different parts of the country. Every single day we had something excited to look forward to, whether it was going on boat rides, swimming, jumping off waterfalls, or tubbing down a river. The trip definitely lived up to the name, but what I loved most was that I could choose when I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and when I wanted to relax. There was such a good balance between exciting activities and free time. I ended up doing almost all of the activities, and I am so glad I did because looking back, those are some of my favorite memories from the trip. We also had plenty of time to hang out and bond with everyone, which I think is such an important part of the program because you spend so much time with the people you meet. As a picky eater, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the food situation was. We got to look at the menus and choose what we wanted, so it was never an issue. I made so many amazing memories, and I would recommend this program to anyone looking for an unforgettable summer experience!!
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
Hola. Yo soy el papá de Isabella Bermúdez. Ella quedó encantada con la experiencia que tuvo durante la semana del campamento de verano en Manuel Antonio. Me dijo que la mamá anfitriona fue excelente. Las actividades y la puntualidad no puede ser mejor. Gracias
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had an amazing time in Costa Rica. It is a beautiful country and Maximo Nivel enabled me to see all of it at its peak. I also racked up community service hours while having a great time with my friends. Would recommend to anyone.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had a wonderful 2 weeks at the summer camp. I enjoyed discovering new cultures through the host families. The volunteer part was also rewarding seeing communities and helping them in Quépos and San Jose. The activities didn’t leave any time for boredom. I loved exploring Costa Rica’s beautiful nature with a bunch of visits. We did surfing, cooking classes, scuba diving and a lot more great activities! The group was also the perfect size with between 20-14 campers and was great for a warm atmosphere. I made friends I definitely have to visit. The staff was also professional and friendly. Would recommend to any teenager who likes travelling and meeting people! Loved it.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I enjoyed a deep immersion in the the culture and history of Costa Rica. The counselors were very knowledgeable and helpful. I especially enjoyed Zip-lining in San Jose and and hiking with Rainmaker. I highly recommend coming with a friend as I think it greatly improves your overall experience.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
Very fun and eye opening experience, with lots of great immersion and opportunity to make new friends. The program felt very smooth and was fun day to day with new things to learn and experience as the days goes on.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
During these two weeks, i made so many new friends and new memories i will cherish forever. I really enjoyed spending time with them and experiencing new things together. The counselors were always there to make sure we were okay and were very supportive. I will miss Nico and Rosa a lot as well as all the friends i have made these past two weeks. Time went by too fast and i wish it lasted a little longer. The hardest part of this trip was saying goodbye. I’m very thankful for everyone who made these two weeks what they were and everything we experienced together will stay with me for a long time. Costa Rica will always have a special place in my heart and i hope our paths will cross again someday. Thank you for everything.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had an amazing time at camp. I got to try so many new things, like surfing and scuba diving, which I had never done before.I made friends from different places. The instructors were awesomethey were really fun, supportive, and made every activity even better. It was such a great experience, and I’m really glad I was part of it
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
The trip was very fun, I felt really immersed in the culture. I learned a lot and made a lot of friends, and counselors were really fun. Taking the spanish classes taught me a lot and I feel like the experience was even better because we were with locals.
Program: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I made so many new friends and I was very immerse in the culture there I had the best time ever. I love this game so much even if it has a few bumps the smooth bumps outweigh the bad bumps. Nico is the best.

Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
AlumniMy parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...
Read Full Interview
Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
AlumniI’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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