Studying abroad in Costa Rica was one of the best experiences of my life, and it was made so memorable with the support of CEA CAPA. CEA CAPA supported me throughout the journey, including before, during, and after. I loved it so much that I came back as an ambassador. While we were there, they connected us with our host families, partnered with a college in Costa Rica, and spent time planning our excursions. If we needed help with changing classes or did not feel comfortable in our living situation, they were always on top of it to help us feel comfortable. Before departing, I was guided through every step to begin my journey with the help of both alumni ambassadors and staff. While we were there, onsite staff were available to assist us.  

Universidad Veritas (the college we attended) had an immersive experience planned for us, including an international center for study abroad students and field trips based on the classes we took. I took a health class where we went on a field trip for a weekend to fully immerse ourselves in the curriculum.  

The partner university, Universidad de Veritas, where I studied! They had a great international center with resources, and we were welcomed warmly during orientation!  

Beyond academics, CEA CAPA helped curate excursions for us. Our trips to Monteverde and Jacó were amazing and well-planned. These experiences allowed us to explore Costa Rica's forests and beaches without stress. Not only did they support us with these excursions, but if we needed help planning any on our own, they had full slideshows with all the resources based on location.  

In Monteverde with my roommate on the hanging bridges on an excursion planned by CEA CAPA! CEA CAPA planned lots of activities while we were there, transportation, food, and housing! 

One of the most memorable highlights was the cooking class where we learned to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes. This was another activity planned by CEA CAPA, where I learned great recipes to take home. In addition, as a vegetarian, I was initially concerned about my diet. However, both in the cooking class and throughout Costa Rica, they were very accommodating.  

For one of our activities, CEA CAPA took us to a cooking class where we made traditional Costa Rican foods like tortilla con queso, olla de carne, arroz con leche, and agua de Sapo.  

CEA CAPA’s support extended to our living arrangements, where they matched us with welcoming host families. My host mom provided a warm and supportive home environment where I was able to learn about the culture. My roommates were also amazing. I loved the connection I made with her, and she ensured I was comfortable. She made amazing food for breakfast and dinner and accommodated all my dietary needs.  

This photoset encapsulates my study abroad journey and the role that CEA CAPA played in making it simpler. They supported us in various areas, including academics, cultural activities, and personal connections. I hope these photos inspire others to embark on their own journeys, supported by CEA CAPA. 
 

A spontaneous lunch planned by CEA CAPA at a Harry Potter themed restaurant for Harry Potter’s birthday!  

While our trip to Cauhita was not planned by CEA CAPA, they gave us all the resources including places to stay and buses to book to plan this excursion on our own to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.  

This was taken from the field trip with Universidad de Veritas where we learned about healing properties of some plants and animals! This field trip was fully planned by the amazing partner institution! 

CEA CAPA took us on our first excursion to Jaco, a beach! During this trip I met so many amazing people and we relaxed while we were there and CEA CAPA planned transportation, food, and housing! 

During our first excursion, before going to Jaco, we stopped by Carara, a national park. There we saw many animals including this sloth! While we were at Carara, we had a tour guide, all planned by CEA CAPA.  

During our excursion, we stayed at hostels with amazing views and rooming with other CEA CAPA students! 

A final goodbye dinner planned by CEA CAPA with all the host families, staff, and students. This picture is with my amazing host mom and my roommates!