Upon successful completion of this program, students will earn 6 hours credit in Spanish from The University of Mississippi per session. During their four weeks abroad, students will live with an approved Costa Rican family in the city of San Jos and study the Spanish language and Costa Rican culture. Students also will participate in group activities and excursions as they pursue their studies. Students learn the language by using it in practical situations, facilitating their ability to think in Spanish. The classes are well-organized and based on specific lesson plans that follow a program.
All teachers plan their classes in advance, incorporating each student's particular needs.
It has no army. In a country with a population of 3.5 million, Costa Rica's literacy rate is 95 percent, among the highest in the developing world. The country has an incredible variety of climates, vegetation, wildlife, and topography. The climate of San Jos is pleasing to most people, ranging from 72- 92 F. Visitors can enjoy many activities, such as hiking in rain forests and mountains, going to the Caribbean or the Pacific beaches, visiting active volcanoes, bathing in hot springs, white water rafting, cruising to islands, canopying, diving, and much more. Students will spend the afternoons exploring the country in organized outings.