What inspired you to go abroad?
I heard about Instituto Estelar Bilingue from a family member that had participated in the language immersion program in Costa Rica. After hearing about her experience and the location, I decided to try it for myself with another family member.
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Why did you choose Instituto Estelar Bilingue?
I work with Spanish speakers and I really wanted to improve my language skills. This was the perfect program for me and I loved every minute of it.
What was your favorite part about Liberia, Costa Rica?
Liberia is a quaint inviting city that is close to the beach and it has its own international airport. It is also close to several national parks, volcanoes, and beautiful volcanic rivers. Costa Rica is one of my favorite places on the planet because of the culture and natural beauties. It is truly one of the happiest places too.
What made your experience abroad unique?
Instituto Estelar Bilingue arranged for us to take extracurricular activities including cooking classes, dance classes, and day trips to national parks with provided transportation and guides. The dance classes were EXCELLENT!!
I also visited during the festivals in Liberia and the teachers took us out on their own to show us a good time. I got to meet so many amazing people at all of the events. I also have to include the Spanglish event, a volunteer event for the teachers and students to speak in a casual setting to practice both Spanish and English, where I met a very special friend.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The classes were so much fun and the teachers were very kind to correct me gently and appropriately. They always went above and beyond to help me during and after class. They were constantly inviting me to participate in local activities.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I could have stayed longer and visited Rincon de la Vieja, a national park outside of Liberia with a volcano.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
I would wake up early and explore the city after breakfast until about 8:00 a.m. Then I would go to class from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. with my teacher Sonja. After class I would eat lunch and have a local soda and take an afternoon break. In the evening I was invited back to the school to participate in events, volunteer, and meet locals. On weekends and a couple of the afternoons during the week, we would go to the beach or a national park with organized groups or new friends.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
Honestly, it was so easy to dive in and explore that I didn't have a lot of free time. I took advantage of all of the opportunities offered to me and I got to see so much more than any other vacations I have ever taken.
What was your accommodation like?
It was comfortable and clean. It was a little dusty sometimes, and mostly very hot.
What was the hardest part about learning a language abroad?
It takes a lot of dedication and patience to learn a new language. The hardest part is getting through uncomfortable moments and confusion with people outside the classroom setting. The teachers help build your confidence for these encounters by encouraging you and letting you know that mistakes are okay to make.
What surprised you most about Costa Rica?
The humidity and heat.
How difficult was it to communicate with locals?
Many locals speak at least some English, so it is easy to get around and get what you need. Sometimes Spanish is necessary, but there is usually someone close by that can help.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
Get ready to study and have a good time!
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
I will always remember my experience in Costa Rica and Instituto Estelar Bilingue. I hope to do another course when I can.
Would you recommend Instituto Estelar Bilingue to others? Why?
Yes, all around great experience. Best vacation I have ever been on.
