Every year, students from universities across the United States seek unique opportunities to study abroad in destinations that offer not only academic growth but also cultural immersion. One such destination gaining popularity is the Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica. Known for its lush rainforests, vibrant indigenous cultures, and pristine beaches, this region provides an ideal environment for students to learn about tropical ecosystems, biodiversity, and Costa Rican culture.
Recently, Lindenwood University in the USA sent a group of eighteen students to Costa Rica to experience a hands-on study abroad program that combined academics, fieldwork, and cultural exploration.
The Lindenwood University Study Abroad Experience
The study abroad program was led by Professor Nancy Cloutier-Davis, who specializes in cross-cultural studies and international education. The program ran during the university’s J-Term, allowing students to gain intensive exposure to Costa Rica’s natural and cultural environment in just two weeks.
The program began with four days in Puerto Viejo, a vibrant town on Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Coast. Puerto Viejo is well known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, colorful architecture, and stunning beaches, making it the perfect starting point for the students’ journey.
While in Puerto Viejo, students had the opportunity to:
- Visit the Bribri Indigenous Territory, learning about the customs, language, and traditions of one of Costa Rica’s native peoples.
- Take part in Afro-Caribbean cooking lessons, preparing traditional meals and gaining insight into local culinary practices.
- Explore the Refugio de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo, a wildlife refuge known for its tropical rainforest, endangered species, and mangrove ecosystems.
- Hike through Chauita National Park, encountering diverse plant and animal life, including monkeys, tropical birds, and reptiles.
Senior Jasmun Moorehead, an exercise science major, remarked, “I really enjoyed meeting indigenous people and seeing how they live differently from the people in Heredia. It was eye-opening to see another way of life so connected to nature.”
Hiking, Rivers, and Waterfalls
One of the highlights of the Southern Caribbean portion of the program was a multi-hour hike through the rainforest, culminating in a spectacular waterfall. Students navigated rivers, climbed steep trails, and observed wildlife in its natural habitat. The physical demands of the hike were outweighed by the immense beauty and educational value of seeing Costa Rica’s tropical ecosystems firsthand.
These experiences help students understand ecosystem dynamics, conservation efforts, and the importance of biodiversity in maintaining environmental balance. For students pursuing fields like biology, environmental science, or exercise science, these excursions offer a rare opportunity to combine physical activity with academic learning.
Transition to Heredia – A Hub for Academic Learning
After exploring the southern Caribbean region, the students traveled to Heredia, located in Costa Rica’s Central Valley. Heredia is often referred to as the “City of Flowers” due to its lush landscapes and vibrant gardens. In Heredia, students attended classes five days a week, focusing on Costa Rican culture, language, and history.
During their time in Heredia, students also visited several historical and natural landmarks, including:
- Poás Volcano National Park, home to one of the largest active craters in the world.
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where students observed waterfalls, wildlife, and botanical gardens showcasing Costa Rica’s flora.
- Local markets and cultural centers to experience daily Costa Rican life and values.
Senior Arista White commented, “I learned about life outside of the U.S. — about other aspects of the country, such as agriculture, economy, and the people. The experience helped me understand the differences between American and Costa Rican society.”
Semester Abroad Program and Cultural Immersion
While the J-Term program lasted two weeks, some students opted to extend their stay for a semester abroad, living with Costa Rican host families. This immersion allowed students to:
- Practice Spanish language skills daily in a real-world context.
- Learn local customs, traditions, and family dynamics.
- Participate in community activities and gain a deeper appreciation for Costa Rican culture.
Sophomore and Spanish major Dana Porter expressed her excitement: “I love everything about Costa Rica. I don’t want to go home. I am happy I am able to stay here for 15 weeks, and I recommend this trip to everyone. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — trust me, it is worth it.”
Students in the semester program also traveled to Samara, a small coastal town, and even made excursions to neighboring Nicaragua, broadening their understanding of Central American geography, culture, and history.
Learning Opportunities in Costa Rica
The Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica is an ideal destination for study abroad programs because it offers:
- Environmental Education: Students witness tropical ecosystems, rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs.
- Cultural Immersion: Direct interaction with indigenous groups, Afro-Caribbean communities, and local families.
- Adventure Learning: Hiking, river crossings, and eco-tourism activities provide hands-on learning experiences.
- Language Development: Daily practice of Spanish with locals enhances fluency and cultural understanding.
- Conservation Awareness: Exposure to wildlife refuges and national parks teaches the importance of sustainability and biodiversity protection.
Student Perspectives
Students who participated in the Lindenwood program reported numerous academic and personal benefits, including:
- Greater understanding of cultural differences and global perspectives.
- Enhanced ability to adapt to new environments and challenges.
- Increased appreciation for nature, conservation, and Costa Rican sustainability efforts.
- Opportunities for networking and friendship with fellow students and local residents.
The program emphasized not just academics, but also personal growth, leadership skills, and global citizenship.
Costa Rica as a Study Abroad Destination
Costa Rica is increasingly recognized as a top destination for study abroad programs for several reasons:
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to over 500,000 species of plants and animals, offering unparalleled research opportunities.
- Cultural Richness: A mix of indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and European influences that enrich students’ understanding of global cultures.
- Safety and Accessibility: Costa Rica is known for being a stable, safe country, ideal for student travel.
- Sustainable Practices: The country is a leader in eco-tourism and environmental conservation, giving students insight into sustainable living practices.
- Diverse Learning Environments: From rainforests and volcanoes to coastal towns and urban centers, students experience a wide variety of learning settings.
Conclusion
The study abroad program on Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Coast provides a life-changing experience for American students. From hiking in tropical rainforests and interacting with indigenous communities to attending classes in Heredia and living with Costa Rican families, students gain a well-rounded understanding of the country’s culture, environment, and way of life.
Programs like the one offered by Lindenwood University show that study abroad is more than academics — it’s about personal growth, cultural understanding, and global awareness. For students looking to combine adventure, learning, and cultural immersion, Costa Rica remains one of the best destinations in the world.
If you are interested in participating in a study abroad program in Costa Rica, contact Professor Nancy Cloutier-Davis at Lindenwood University for more information. This journey could be the opportunity of a lifetime to experience Costa Rica’s rich culture, biodiversity, and tropical beauty firsthand.