San José (Costa Rica)

During my year abroad I went to Costa Rica and to Germany.  I spent the academic year studying Spanish and Latin American Art History at the university in San José and at weekends and in the holidays I went to the Caribbean or Pacific coast!  I was involved in voluntary work in primary schools and childrens' homes in Costa Rica. I lived with native speakers. I chose this option because I always had the opportunity to speak Spanish at work and play! The highlights of the year were touring Central  and Southern America by coach and air with a group of like-minded students I met from London; Christmas shopping in Mexico - Mayan style;  Christmas Day at Atitlán Lake in Guatemala (we were roasting not the turkey!) and New Year's Eve in Quito, Ecuador.....The best days of my life!! The year abroad was beneficial in many ways.  I experienced different cultures, climates and cuisine.  I recommend that you take a "hands on" approach and try to work alongside some natives for work experience that is second to none. 

Glenda Ingham