Summer in Costa Rica
Explore the Intersections of Environment, Culture, and Health
Experience Study Abroad in Costa Rica
Travel to Costa Rica for 4 weeks this summer while earning 6 credits toward your SOU degree!
PROGRAM DETAILS
Dates: July 21st – Aug 18th, 2024
Location: San Joaquín de Flores, Costa Rica
Faculty Lead: Dr. Crystal Stroud [bio]
Academics: Two (2) courses for six (6) credits
Program Price: $4,725
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Explore the intersection of health, culture, and environment in this unique summer program in Costa Rica. Earn 6 credits, learn how people live longer healthier lives, and engage in service-learning in the local community!
The program takes place in beautiful San Joaquín de Flores, Costa Rica’s central valley, a mecca of environmental conservation. Students will travel to the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s “Blue Zones”—a geographic area where people live longer than anywhere else!
Pura Vida
Ticos live by the phrase Pura Vida, which translates to “Pure Life”. Pura Vida goes beyond a simple translation though; in Costa Rica, it is a way of life for the locals. It encapsulates a laid-back, optimistic lifestyle and living one’s life to the fullest.
Watch this video to see what it is like to study abroad in the land of Pura Vida!
What’s Included in the Program
Transportation & Travel Documents
- Group airport pick-up in San José (SJO), with transportation to San Joaquin de Flores
- Group airport return in San José (SJO)
- Ground transportation on all program activities, as necessary
Not Included:
- International airfare to and from Medford, OR
- Passport processing fees
- Luggage fees
Activities & Excursion
Cultural Activities:
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- Walking tour of San Joaquín de Flores and Heredia
- Visit to an organic farm
- Visit a farmer’s market in Mercedes Norte
- Tropical Rhythms Dance Class
- Yoga Class
- Costa Rican cooking class
Excursions:
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- Multinight trip to Nicoya Peninsula, includes visit to the National Park Reserve in Santa Teresa
- Visit Poas Volcano National Park
- Guided visit of Doka Coffee Plantation
- Sarchí visit, painting workshop and visit to an oxcart factory
Please note: Cultural activities and Excursions are subject to change depending on availability, weather, and other factors
Room & Board
- Accommodation with a host family for program duration (one student per family)
- Homestay to provide linens, towels, and weekly cleaning
- Homestay to provide 2-3 three meals per day
- Group welcome meal, farewell meal, and one cooking class meal
Not Included:
- Any meals not specified or any meals listed as “not included” on the itinerary
Health & Safety
- International health insurance
- Onsite cultural, health, and safety orientation
Academics & Faculty
Two courses:
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- HE 331 Environmental Health – 3 credits (I-strand)
- Spanish Language Course taught by local instructor
Learning Opportunities:
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- Service-learning with a local recycling initiative
- Service-learning activity with a senior care center (pending availability and COVID protocols
- Guest lecture by representative of Costa Rican Ministry of Health (pending availability)
- Tree planting service activity with Costas Verdes
- Guest Lecture: Health & longevity in Costa Rica Blue Zones with Biologist from Costa Verdes
- Visit to a local health care clinic
SOU Faculty Lead:
-
- Dr. Crystal Stroud [bio]
SOU Advising
Contact [email protected] to learn more.
“I learned so much about myself and gained a much deeper appreciation for other cultures. It opened my eyes to a whole world I didn’t know about. Definitely worthwhile. I would do it again in a heartbeat!”
Looking for more information?
Complete the form to get in touch, and we’ll follow up to answer any questions you may have!
To contact the Study Away office, email [email protected].
Contact the Office of Financial Aid for more information on using financial aid during summer term.
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.