Student
Testimonials
Here you can find some of our student testimonials!
Lily Carlson (University of Michigan ’25) studied with the Field Program during the spring semester in 2024.
ICADS is the best! Living with a host family was an amazing experience that improved my Spanish skills significantly and created an amazing system of support and connection for me in Costa Rica. The classes were interesting, meaningful, and involved a lot of experiential learning, allowing us to immerse ourselves in a new culture and learn from locals. The field program took us all over the country, conducting field work in a variety of ecosystems and communities. I highly recommend this program!
What was the most nerve-racking moment, and how did you overcome it?
Going to my independent field work site in a new town by myself. I overcame it by intentionally working to connect with my host family and other people at my field work site. I also stayed in contact with the other students in the program, and we were able to provide support for each other through WhatsApp.
Lily’s pros of the programs:
- Host families are amazing and increased my Spanish skills a lot
- Program is very focused on connection with local communities and having authentic experiences
- All ICADS staff are very knowledgable, supportive, and helpful
Leila Mahmoodi (Chapman University ’25) took part in the Field Program during the spring semester of 2024.
I can honestly say this program changed my perspective on the world and myself. The homestays, intensive Spanish, Block 1 classes on social development in Latin America, the Field Program trip, and my research period each taught me so much. I had the best time of my life, and the amazing staff at ICADS played a huge role in that.
Before choosing ICADS, really ask yourself if you can handle the inevitable discomforts that come with a study abroad program (language barriers, culture shock, bugs, humidity, etc.) and if you can do so with grace and openness.
I would highly recommend ICADS to any outdoorsy person looking for cultural immersion, academic rigor, and the formation of beautiful connections while studying abroad.
Haileigh Stephens (Chatham University) participated in the Summer Internship program in 2024.
I studied abroad with ICADS and spent nine weeks in Costa Rica. I really enjoyed the first two weeks spent in classes at ICADS learning about Costa Rica and practicing my Spanish-speaking skills. I truly loved all the professors I had! After the first two weeks, I began an internship with the organization Fundación Mujer. It was a really great place for me to work and learn! The staff was very welcoming and understanding of my learning process. I’m so thankful to ICADS for listening to my academic interests and organizing the internship for me.
What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Just go for it! The classes are really engaging and interesting, and you’ll get to hear stories from so many interesting people while you’re here. ICADS encourages personal growth and makes sure that your time abroad really means something.