When I think back to my expectations going into my study abroad, it puts a smile on my face. At the time, I wanted to challenge myself to see if I could leave my comfort zone and live in Costa Rica. I wanted to gain knowledge and perspectives, improve my Spanish, and meet new people, and I’m happy I got to do all those things. However, it was not how I imagined it would go. ICADS isn’t just an institution that provides classes aimed at broadening your knowledge in a specific field. If you’re expecting anything like your typical university experience, you’re in for a surprise. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly what to expect, but if you share any of the aspirations I had for going abroad, ICADS is an option that I strongly recommend.
I can’t stress enough that I started my semester at ICADS without much relevant experience. Up until that point, most of my coursework was related to cognitive science and international studies. During my program at ICADS, I had countless unique experiences related to social and natural sciences. There were brilliant guest speakers, beautiful nature and wildlife, and insightful field trips. Although lots of it was new, and at times challenging, the program designed so that it could be attended by someone from any background.
The Field Program was extra special as it all built towards our final month of our program where we had the opportunity to carry out our own independent research. The research was practically unbounded, and I was able to investigate almost any topic as long as it had a social or environmental impact. Seriously, imagine being encouraged and supported in researching whatever topic you’re interested in. If this sounds scary, don’t let it. This was my favorite part of the program, which is ironic as it was the part I was most worried about.
I ended up investigating perspectives on bullying between students and parents. I had a blast working with the high school and spending time with my host family. I got to play futsal for the first time, I visited my friends I had made in the early parts of my program, and I got to explore the south pacific side of the country. I have plenty of pictures that I could show (and I included a few) or anecdotes I could tell, but I can’t possibly convey what’s in store during an experience at ICADS. I met some awesome people that I’m still in contact with to this day. I got to see sites and hear from speakers that I never would have if I hadn’t chosen this program. Some of these lectures challenged my existing views and exposed just how complicated social and environmental issues can be. I got to live with two Costa Rican families and learn from them. I just recently made a traditional Costa Rica breakfast for my family to try in the US, and I make it for myself all the time.
My experience at ICADS was not what I expected, and I’m so happy this was the case. The parts that seemed the most scary were the most exciting. I’m so thankful for the experience and time I spent there. It was hard saying goodbye to peers, staff, and my host family, which was something I hadn’t considered before going abroad. Although it was difficult, it was for a good reason. It was so different from the academic setting at my university in the US, but in a good way. I got to learn and grow as a person from people who I consider friends and not just peers.
