What inspired you to go abroad?
My inspiration to go abroad is connected to my passion to learn Spanish. I believe that U.S. Americans have a responsibility to learn a language besides English. Because I live in Chicago, there are so many people who speak Spanish and I wanted to be able to communicate with them in their language. I love to travel and also recognized that the best way to learn a language is to be immersed in it. I could not learn very much by taking a one hour per week Spanish class. I wanted to spend all day, every day for an extended amount of time speaking Spanish and meeting new people.
I love teaching English and learning languages; especially Spanish. I believe that if you are able, can afford it and are so lucky to go abroad, you shouldn't pass up the chance to do so.
Why did you choose Instituto Estelar Bilingüe?
I chose Instituto Estelar Bilingüe because of a recommendation from a friend, and was very pleased with the school. Not only are the teachers there fantastic, but the extra opportunities to explore Costa Rican nature and culture enriched my experience. I also wanted to be in a school that offered all day classes that were mostly conversational.
What was your favorite part about your Costa Rica?
My favorite parts about Costa Rica are the peaceful attitudes of the people there and the wealth of natural beauty in every city. Being surrounded by the flora and fauna brings out inner peace in me. Connecting with people who love their country and sharing that love with them filled my heart.
What made your experience abroad unique?
My experience in Costa Rica was unique because of the people with whom I interacted. I did not just visit the touristy places, nor spend my whole time speaking English. Getting to learn from Costa Ricans about what makes them love life and love their country really made Costa Rica come alive for me and now maintains a special place in my heart. Learning Spanish at Instituto Estelar helps make those interactions a reality and positive experiences.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The staff at Instituto Estelar were fantastic because they taught about the local culture and what new travelers can expect in Costa Rica. They teach more than just Spanish; they also demonstrate the Pura Vida way of life. They focus on the positive and create a community within the school that makes you want to visit it every day.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I could have spent more time at Instituto Estelar and visited them earlier during my time in Costa Rica. I would like to go back for more Spanish classes, particularly private classes, to maximize my time with their wonderful Spanish teachers.
Waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
In my Spanish immersion program, I started the day with Spanish grammar instruction. We then had time to practice what we learned with some written and verbal exercises. We talked extensively in class to maximize the conversation time. Class lasted for a few hours. In the afternoon there was an opportunity to learn from local artisans or a dance instructor. And on the weekend a hiking trip was planned for us. It was such an amazing time with the perfect amount of practice and rest.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I liked visiting the central square and getting time to practice my Spanish. I practiced with staff at the school and local members of the community.
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
I stayed near the school and loved that it was so close. It was comfortable and a good place to relax.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
Before participating in the Spanish immersion program, I would recommend that each participant come prepared to make mistakes and practice Spanish at every opportunity.
Learning a language can be exhausting, but it is helpful to keep working on it and not be afraid to make mistakes or sound silly.
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
I feel that I am more open-minded after my time abroad. Also, getting to be conscious in a second language and culture has helped me view the world from a new and pluralistic perspective. I constantly think about my time in Costa Rica and the immersion experience of being outside my comfort zone. It has made me a stronger and more compassionate person.
Would you recommend Instituto Estelar Bilingüe to others? Why?
I would highly recommend this program to others and do so to my friends. I recommend it because I learned so much Spanish during my time with Instituto Estelar Bilingüe. I also learned how to live in a community that is different from my home community and how to be open to all the things that community can teach me. I've learned how to adapt to a very different way of living and to find that comforting. I learned this with the help of the teachers and staff at Instituto Estelar Bilingüe.
