Internships in Heredia, Costa Rica

This took me a long time to write because I wasn’t sure what to say. I had such a great time being part of this experience for two main reasons: visiting a new place and completing my internship. However, it was also very challenging for me for several reasons. I was sick during the first week and missed out on a lot, and I also faced some friendship issues along the way. Because of this, I wasn’t able to experience everything to the fullest. Despite these challenges, this trip allowed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. I had to become more independent and confident in myself. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and made new friends, which is something I am very proud of. I am so grateful that I took this opportunity. Being part of Casa Luz is something I will always cherish, and I only wish I had been able to spend more time there. It was beautiful to see the young mothers grow into their roles, balancing motherhood while still holding on to parts of their own childhood and identity. Although this experience may have been centered around lesson plans for the children, I felt it was just as much if not more for the mothers. I almost wish the focus had been more directly centered on them, since they participated so actively. Regardless of the challenges, it was truly an amazing experience, and I learned so much about myself through it.

I was originally supposed to go study in broad in Germany and France. That program got canceled due to not getting enough students so when I heard, I had the chance to shadow ABROAD in Central America I immediately jumped on it. I have to admit at first I did have an initial culture shock due to the language barrier, and I wish that the complete language barrier would’ve been communicated more thoroughly especially before I signed up for the trip. I feel like I had the time of my life and I had a once in a lifetime experience, and I felt deeply in love with Costa Rica and the people. My home stay was very nice and warm and comforting.

From the time I left the airport I felt very safe and comfortable in this experience. I loved the close knit community feel of the program and weekly meeting and continuous activities for us to do that I felt I was getting a full experience. I would love to recommend this to anybody looking to learn a new language as you really get to immerse your self in teh culture with amazing teachers, directors, and program activities weekly.

I absolutely loved studying abroad with Arcos! Between the great, weekly excursions and the fantastic homestays, I don't think I could have had a better experience. Living with a host family was my favorite aspect, as I was fully immersed in the culture, eating the traditional food and learning basic vocabulary and traditions every day. The academics allowed me to develop my Spanish abilities further and I created lasting relationships with the professors. I even had the opportunity to participate in an internship, where I taught in a local school. Also, the directors were great and not only planned fun excursions for the group, but they also helped us plan our own, ensuring that we would not have a problem with reservations, travel, etc. Also, I should mention that I completed a semester online through Arcos before I studied in person. I loved this experience and learned a ton about the language and the culture. I felt extremely prepared to live in Costa Rica. I highly recommend Arcos and would study abroad with them again if I could.

Arcos went above and beyond to make all students feel comfortable in their environment. It also was for a great affordable price point! The host families are very specifically picked out and are used to having host students and make the experience very comfortable. They also provide all your meals and are very courteous of things that you like and don't like. They are also a super close walk from where you will be attending school. I am still in touch with my host family even after I have left. The weekend excursions are super fun and you get to travel to some beautiful parts of the country super conveniently, and for no extra cost. The hotels that they put you in for those weekends are also very nice. Everyone on the Arcos team wants you to succeed and you are always able to reach them if you need to. I DEFINITELY recommend!