Before the Launch
I am senior
pursuing my degree in Communications with an emphasis in Media Studies, and a
minor in Spanish. Through my time at NIU, I have developed a passion for the
Spanish language and culture. I also love to hang out with my friends and play
sports, watch movies, and Latin dance. I will be graduating by the end of this
summer after my studies in Costa Rica.
So why am I
choosing to study abroad in Costa Rica? I remember one of my professors telling
the class the benefits of studying abroad, and learning Spanish. I really
thought it was a cool idea, but in my mind I didn't think it would be possible
for me financially. I decided to go to the study abroad fair and get a little
more information. I only had 12 more credits to finish school, and thought about
finishing up the classes abroad. I never traveled outside of the country, and
did something adventurous. So I saw the CIS program for Costa Rica and it
offered the right amount of credits I needed
in order to graduate. I thought to myself, "Why not?" Many of
the study abroad summer programs offered only 6-9 credits, and the CIS program
offered the right amount. I really wanted to learn the Spanish language, and
experience the culture, especially the music and dance. After looking at the
CIS program for Costa Rica, I knew this is what I wanted. They offered a chance
to live with a host family and experience the culture of Costa Rica. I really
was drawn to the pictures of Costa Rica and the amazing beauty of the land.
Now I probably say
preparing for my trip was the most difficult process, but it was totally worth
it. I had to approve courses, fill out and read many papers, and work towards
get my passport. But every step of the way, the NIU study abroad office helped
me tremendously. I got my airport ticket earlier this month, and I'm all set
for my trip. Now I am getting my vaccinations later this week, and making all
the preparations for the big launch. I have to make sure I get all the things I
need such as, medicine, food, the right clothes, and toiletries. Overall, I am
ready to go to begin a new journey in Costa Rica.
What do I hope to
gain from my experience?
1. Improvement in
Spanish- I really hope to be able to tremendously improve in my Spanish
speaking and conversational skills. It will definitely force me to talk Spanish
24/7.
2. New perspective
of the world-I want to have a different perspective of what life and culture is
like outside of the bubble that I live in.
3. Long lasting
Relationships-I desire to gain some long lasting friendships with the people I
meet during my time in Costa Rica.
4. Better clarity
for my future-I hope that through being here I can have a better sense of
direction for my future plans after graduation, and have future opportunities
to travel to even more places in Latin America.
5. Dance! I know
that in Costa Rica dance and music are an important thing. I hope I can learn
the dances in Costa Rica, and gain some great Latin dancing skills.
What fears and
anxieties do I have?
1. The language- I
know it will be difficult sometimes to understand people with the language and
cultural barriers. But I know the more I immerse myself in the culture and
language, I will be able to understand and adjust to the language.
2. Having
difficulties with transportation and other things- I worry about if I loose
directions, and facing complications with travel and the unexpected
occurrences.
3. Health-I have to
make sure I take care of my health, as I am aware of the many health problems
that can occur overseas.
Now I am ready to
go to this land and I will keep you all up to date during my trip to the
amazing land of Costa Rica!
