AIFS Abroad in San José, Costa Rica: Summer

I studied abroad to learn the course content, strengthen my Spanish, and hopefully gain an understanding of another culture. I did get to learn from my courses and practice my Spanish, but I also learned so much more than I expected about the geography, environment, and culture. My program was only five weeks, but the knowledge and understanding that I gained will be with me for the rest of my life. The experiences and friendships that I gained were priceless I cannot speak highly enough of my "Mama Tica", LCI Veritas, my roommates, and most importantly, the AIFS staff that made it all possible. While I was in Costa Rica I posted multiple videos about my experiences on my TikTok @syd.evallen

Studying abroad has been one of the best decisions I have made for myself, and it wouldn't have been possible without AIFS. I studied abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica, during the summer of 2025, and I attended Universidad Veritas. There, I only took one class called "Intermediate level Spanish for health professions." My reasons for studying abroad were to practice my Spanish speaking skills, immerse myself in a new culture, and learn about the rich, beautiful country. I stayed with a host mother during my stay and went on weekend excursions to Monte Verde, La Fortuna, and Sarapiqui. I was able to cultivate new friendships and relationships with the students in my program, my host family, professors, and natives. Throughout my application process, departure, and duration of the program, I had staff members such as Karla Caballo, Jade Green, and Lucy Bisselle to assist me. I’d recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking for self-exploration and adventure.

Going into studying abroad, I thought it would be a nice resume filler or just something to do, but it truly changed my life. From the food, people, culture, and more, I was forever changed and learned so much about myself as well as others. I was able to meet so many local students as well as other international students with whom I’m still in contact with. My host family was the best and I was able to be fully immersed into the Costa Rican culture. Whether it’s finances, language barriers, or anything else that may be holding you back, please reach out and AIFS will help you figure out what you need to have the experience of a lifetime.

My time in Costa Rica was wonderful; it was a time for me to explore not only about myself, but also the beautiful city San Jose. Since Covid had began, my opportunities to study abroad were limited and I am so blessed and grateful that AIFS gave me the opportunity to study at Veritas Universidad.

I had the best possible experience here! Everyone that works for AIFS was incredibly helpful and welcoming, and I had an amazing experience living with my host family as well. I loved my professors and had a great time in Costa Rica. I would definitely recommend this program to my friends!

During my time in San Jose, Costa Rica I discovered SO MUCH! The city, myself, and of course the food. I visited so many beaches, seen so many animals and met some life long friends. My host family were very welcoming and my on-site resident director was the best. Thank you AIFS for everything. My classes were very much hands on and I learned so much about HealthCare systems all around the world. Studying abroad was truly a dream come true and my first time ever out the Country. San Jose is a beautiful city and so are the people. I would encourage many students to study abroad and I would 100% encourage them to study in Costa Rica.

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This was such a great trip for me in so many ways. I felt familiar with being in San José very quickly, and I think I have the great AIFS director and program coordinators and my host family who were very welcoming and accommodating. In addition to them, I met great people--my host family, locals, and other students studying abroad--people that I want to stay in contact with for life. Even though practicing the language felt daunting, most people were patient and encouraging, and I am way more confident speaking Spanish now. I won't say everything was as I expected it to be, but my time in San José taught me about independence and confidence in navigating the world, appreciation for new surroundings, and responsibility and accountability for my own safety. I feel better for having gone, and I would love to go back some time soon.

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My time is Costa Rica was amazing. Not only did I have a fun and informative cultural experience, I learned a great deal too and improved my Spanish greatly. From the food, to the trips, to getting to know my host family, my time in Costa Rica was awesome. The only feedback I have is that one of my classes, Conflict Resolution was not too informative and took up a lot of my time that I could have been spending experiencing San Jose. But my other class, Spanish in Healthcare, was extremely useful and definitely was worth it.

I absolutely would recommend this program to anyone who wants to study abroad! You meet life long g friends and make a lot of memories. The AIFS staff were very warm and welcoming! As I stated earlier if anyone wants to study abroad you should go through this program because you are able to meet new people and not have to travel alone. Costa Rica was beautiful. If you go to San Jose, Karla Carballo and Catalina and Chacon are amazing!

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