TESTIMONIALS

Eleanor | Costa Rica | Fall 2026

“There are some trips that stay with you long after you’ve returned home, and Costa Rica was one of those for me. More than an opportunity to learn Spanish, it was a chance to experience life beyond the familiar. As a young adult, this was my first opportunity to truly leave the surroundings I had always known and discover who I could become on my own.

While learning Spanish was a central part of the experience, some of the most meaningful memories happened outside the classroom. One of the most memorable was the relationship I built with my host mom. We connected with shared meals, card games, evenings spent dancing, and nightly walks around town. Through these everyday moments, we shared stories, laughter, and glimpses into each other’s lives. What began as a host-student relationship came to feel more like family. She made an unfamiliar place feel like home, and I am forever grateful for the time we shared.

Beyond my daily life with my host family and weekly classes, weekend excursions gave me the opportunity to discover more of Costa Rica’s remarkable landscapes and wildlife. From exploring the beaches and wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park to ziplining, whitewater rafting, surfing, and hiking to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, each adventure offered a new perspective on the country. Touring a coffee plantation and wandering through the toucan enclosure at a wildlife sanctuary offered equally memorable glimpses into Costa Rica’s culture and biodiversity. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the country and reminded me how rewarding it can be to approach the world with curiosity and a willingness to try something new.

I returned home with much more than improved language skills. I gained meaningful relationships, a broader perspective, and a greater willingness to embrace the unfamiliar. Costa Rica taught me how much there is to discover when you step outside your comfort zone, and it’s a lesson I’ll carry with me for years to come.”

Isaac | Costa Rica 2024

“My experience is Costa Rica was so valuable. Living in Heredia and Samara with host families was such an immersive experience. I learned plenty of Spanish not just because of the curriculum but also because I had the ability to practice at home and in daily life. I’m also so glad I got to meet the people in my cohort of Washingtonians, it was such a cool and unique group of people. We all came from different walks of life, and it was because of the program that our paths crossed. As much as I liked practicing Spanish, I would say that my favorite part of the program was the excursions that were planned out for us. The views were breath taking, the animals were cool, and being able to experience all that with good people was just a cherry on top. I kind of came into the program not knowing what to expect and being a bit nervous going on a trip like this on my own, but it ended up being the best choice I ever made.”