Spanish study abroad programs in Costa Rica
So you’ve heard about opportunities to study Spanish abroad in a warm, beautiful country like Costa Rica, and you’re totally psyched. There’s just one problem: you’re also totally freaked out. The prospects of being alone in a new place and not understanding anything are definitely making you think twice.
Well, the good news is that you’re not the first person to feel this way and you won’t be the last. After almost 30 years of experience offering Spanish courses to students from all over the world, Costa Rica Language Academy (CRLA) has the answers to your 6 biggest worries about Spanish studies abroad in a foreign country.
1. I’ll never understand anything and it will be so embarrassing.
Learning a new language can involve embarrassing situations at times. However, CRLA’s Spanish immersion programs with trained professionals provide a safe environment for practicing Spanish so you’ll have the confidence and strategies for interacting with speakers outside of the classroom. And when those embarrassing moments pop up, having a good sense of humor can turn any embarrassing moment into a go-to story that all your friends love when you’re back at home!
2. I can’t afford study abroad.
CRLA’s diverse program options mean that there’s a program for anyone’s budget. You can study as little as a week if that’s all your wallet allows or you can stay up to six months! Either way, you have plenty of control over how much you spend. If you’re on a really tight budget, you can drop the extras, pay for classes by the hour, and find your own housing according to your price point. Since new courses begin every Monday, you can also start your experience in the moment that makes sense for you financially.
3. I’ll feel alone and homesick.
It’s inevitable that you’ll miss some of the comforts of home in a new place. However, the CRLA homestay program provides you with a home away from home. CRLA establishes relationships with each of our homestay families and takes your preferences into account to ensure that your homestay is a good fit. Your family will provide many opportunities to practice and improve your Spanish. They will also help you feel at home and experience Costa Rican culture in a way you never could from a hotel room. Moreover, you’ll be so busy at our extracurricular activities, you won’t have time to feel homesick!
4. I need special accommodations.
CRLA understands that each individual has different needs, whether dietary, medical, or otherwise. Just let us know what accommodations you require, and we can work with you to make your stay possible and enjoyable!
5. I’ve heard that Spanish-speaking countries are dangerous.
We’ve all heard plenty about violence in Spanish-speaking countries. However, rest assured that Costa Rica is quite safe. In fact, the U.S. Department of State categorizes the country in its lowest risk level, “Exercise Normal Precautions”. This makes Costa Rica a great place for an immersion experience!
6. I don’t know where to start.
An established, highly regarded academy like CRLA is a great place to put your worries to rest and start meeting your personal and professional goals for Spanish. If you’re interested in finding out more about opportunities with us, we’d love to hear from you!