Walton College and College of Engineering
First year EXPERIENCE:
costa rica & Panama
with University of Arkansas & API
Program Summary
Program Dates: May 11-21, 2025
Location: Costa Rica & Panama
Application Deadline: Jan 17, 2025
Program Price: Nominal, see details in Summary
Participant Selection Criteria:
- Current first-year Walton College or College of Engineering student
- Completed at least 12 semester hours
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Demonstrated financial need as determined by FAFSA
Program Details
This program is for Walton College of Business and College of Engineering students who have completed their freshman year and is designed to provide a study abroad opportunity for those who might not otherwise have the resources to do so.
With the assistance from Walton College and College of Engineering, as well as scholarships and contributions by donors, this program attempts to remove much of the financial burden of studying abroad so the student can focus on learning and immersing themselves in the experience.
Who:
Current first-year Walton College or College of Engineering students who have completed a minimum of 12 hours with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. Students should have demonstrated financial need as determined by FAFSA.
Although all freshman Walton College and College of Engineering students are eligible to apply, preference will be given, to the extent allowed by law, to students who (a) are in-state, (b) have not traveled abroad previously, (c) are first generation students, and/or (d) have demonstrated a financial need. Students must have earned a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA to be eligible.
Why:
Spend 10 days in Costa Rica and Panama making connections, visiting companies including Walmart and L’Oreal, and building confidence that will bring you more opportunities and life-long benefits!
Price:
Students should expect to pay a nominal fee, plus some meals while on the program.
How:
Students will apply through the regular study abroad process.
Application Process
First, apply directly through the University of Arkansas Hogs Abroad portal.
After you submit your materials, your application will be reviewed by Walton College and College of Engineering staff. If approved, you will be asked to complete final paperwork with our study abroad partner, API.
Company Visits
Learn More
- Finca Alsacia: A coffee plantation owned by Starbucks
- CINDE: Experts in Foreign Direct Investment guiding companies to operate in Costa Rica
-
Solar panel project/farm or similar: Costa Rica is known for its commitment to renewable energy and has operated on 98 percent renewable energy since 2014 (pending availability)
- Walmart Mexico y Centroamerica: Visit the Walmart corporate headquarters in San Jose
- L’Oreal Centroamerica (Panama): Visit L’Oreal’s business hub in Central America, which represents 20 of their 34 brands
Additional company visits forthcoming; subject to change depending on availability.
Itinerary Highlights
Learn More
- San Jose neighborhood walking tour
- Visit to La Paz Wildlife & Waterfalls (lunch included)
- Farm to table lunch included at Lecanto, a certified organic farm
- San Jose tour: Central Market & artisan market
- Salsa Dance class
- Coffee & Chocolate Tour
- Guided visit to Arenal National Park & Volcano
- Canopy tour (includes ziplining and group lunch)
- Cena folklorica Panamanian dinner, show, & musical presentation
- Panama City & Panama Canal tour
Housing & Meals
Learn More
- Group welcome meal, farewell meal, and 5 other meals included, as listed in itinerary
- Accommodation in shared hotel rooms for program duration: linens and towels, weekly cleaning, internet access and daily breakfast included
Travel Documents
Learn More
- Passport fees not included in program cost
Health & Safety
Learn more
- API health, safety and cultural orientation offered upon arrival
What's Included
Learn More
- Included in program cost:
- Housing
- Some meals
- Transportation on-site
- Excursions
- Company visits
- Professional development content
NEW - Fare Finder!
In an effort to reduce financial barriers and increase access, we are offering the Fare Finder™ app right inside of APIConnect to provide access to discounted airfare for academic travel. With Fare Finder, we’re making educational travel simpler and more accessible than ever before.
Passport Resources
Don’t let a missing passport derail your study abroad plans! International travelers are itching to get back out there so processing time for passport applications and renewals has increased. Apply for or renew your passport as soon as possible to ensure your study abroad plans stay on track!
A Razorback's experience
“I want you to know just how amazing of an experience I had with API! I tell people that it exceeded all of my expectations, that it couldn’t have been any better. Thank you for creating such a great program! Throughout the session, API was always there to answer questions, give advice, and provide assistance. If I had to do it all again I would still choose API.”
Learn More & Apply!
For more information on this program, or how to get the application process started, reach out to the study abroad office!
Let’s Get You Abroad!
If you have any questions about studying abroad, fill out the form below and API will get back to you!
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Why API
API offers best-in-class programming, with student well-being a high priority.
Our mission is to create better global citizens through international experiential learning. API programs are developed to be transformative, career-boosting experiences that include:
- Community involvement through optional volunteer programs with API Gives Back
- Cultural awareness through relevant coursework and time spent in multicultural student groups
- High-touch student support throughout the program
About API
Academic Programs International (API) was founded in 1997 and is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable experiential learning programs. Their extensive pre-departure preparation, coupled with strong support services on-site, facilitates academic, cultural and linguistic learning. Within the supportive environment of the API programs, API participants are encouraged to explore their host communities and become increasingly independent and confident in their own abilities. They strive to make international educational experiences accessible to as many participants as possible, and, as such, works to provide multiple program components at a low program cost.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
API is committed to providing enriching international experiences to its participants. We believe in the importance of promoting acceptance, dignity, and respect among people of all backgrounds. No matter who you are or where you come from, API will support you during your journey abroad.