Discover Costa Rica: A Top Study Abroad Destination for High School Students Seeking Cultural Immersion and Adventure

Costa Rica, a small Central American country known for its lush rainforests, biodiversity, wildlife, and pristine beaches, is an ideal study abroad destination for high school students seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and educational experiences. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the highlights Costa Rica has to offer, based on program reviews and travel experiences!

Arcos Journeys participants with their host family chickens in Atenas.

Atenas: Authentic culture and perfect climate

Atenas, a picturesque town located in the central part of Costa Rica, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Central Valley, Atenas offers visitors a charming blend of traditional Costa Rican culture and modern amenities. Surrounded by lush coffee plantations and verdant countryside, the town boasts a pleasant climate year-round, claiming the title of “The Best Climate in the World” by National Geographic. With its friendly community, colorful architecture, and stunning vistas of the distant mountains, Atenas provides a safe and explorable town for high school students. Additionally, the town’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the diverse attractions of Costa Rica, including national parks, volcanoes, and pristine beaches. Atenas truly embodies the essence of the country’s pura vida lifestyle, making it an enchanting destination for high school students seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience.

A golden sunset over the pacific ocean on an Arcos Journeys excursion.

Manuel Antonio: Pacific Beach and Biodiversity 

Manuel Antonio, situated on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty and abundant biodiversity. This small coastal town is home to the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, a jewel of the country’s protected areas. The park encompasses lush rainforests, pristine white sand beaches, and an array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and colorful tropical birds. Visitors can hike through the park’s well-maintained trails, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. With its vibrant blend of nature and adventure, Manuel Antonio provides a perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Manuel Antonio is a tropical paradise that captivates visitors with its natural wonders, making it an unforgettable destination for high school students.

Arcos Journeys high school students pose in front of the majestic Arenal Volcano on their hike at Bogarín Nature Trail in La Fortuna.

Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna: Adventure and Wellness 

At the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna region, students can partake in adventure sports like zip-lining through the forest canopy and hiking through the lush landscape. Alongside these adrenaline-pumping activities, students can also enjoy rejuvenating hot springs nestled in the lush landscape near the Arenal Volcano. The hot springs offer a unique and relaxing experience in the heart of nature where students can soak in a series of naturally heated mineral pools with various temperatures and sizes.

GUANACASTE caption: A relaxing afternoon on Conchal beach, known for its white sand and shell-covered shore.

Guanacaste: Blue Zones and Breathtaking Beaches 

The Guanacaste region is home to one of the world’s only Blue Zones, where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. High school students can discover the secrets behind this phenomenon, learn about local traditions, and explore the region’s stunning beaches, such as Brasilito and Conchal. Guanacaste beaches offer a variety of activities, including surfing lessons, snorkeling, and wildlife watching, providing unforgettable experiences for high school students.

One of the best ways to explore the rainforest is on horseback.

For a truly immersive and authentic Costa Rican experience, consider the High School Program – Tropical Discovery, Blue Zones & Spanish” offered by Arcos Journeys Abroad. With a focus on the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, this program introduces students to La Fortuna’s tropical environment, wellness practices in the Guanacaste region, and much more. Students visit the famous Bogarin Nature Trail, known for its multitude of sloths and go horseback riding through the jungle. Directed by the experienced Arcos staff, students will be in safe and professional hands as they explore the natural beauty and local culture of Costa Rica. This program also includes Spanish language lessons, ensuring that students not only experience the country’s stunning landscapes but also develop a deeper understanding of its people and culture. Parents can trust that Arcos Journeys Abroad will provide a secure and enriching experience for their high schoolers.

Arcos Journeys participants celebrate a cumpleaños with their host family, cake and a piñata.

Living with a Costa Rican host family offers a unique and enriching experience for high school students seeking an immersive language program such as the Spanish Language and Costa Rican Culture Program with Arcos Journeys Abroad. Costa Rican families are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making students feel like a part of the family from the moment they arrive. Sharing daily life with a host family provides an opportunity to practice and improve Spanish language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of Costa Rican customs, traditions, and way of life. From enjoying delicious homemade meals of gallo pinto and casados to participating in family gatherings and celebrations, living with a host family allows for an authentic glimpse into the local culture. Through this immersive experience, high school students not only foster meaningful connections with their host family but also develop a greater appreciation and respect for the Costa Rican way of life. Living with a Costa Rican host family truly offers a transformative cultural experience that creates lasting memories and friendships.

Arcos students lead enriching educational activities for children at a local school.

Volunteering in Costa Rica is one of the most rewarding and meaningful ways to experience the country. The Community Service & Eco Tourism Program with Arcos Journeys Abroad is the ideal opportunity for high school students wanting to make a positive impact while immersing themselves in the country’s rich culture and breathtaking natural wonders. This program combines community service initiatives with eco-tourism activities, creating a well-rounded experience that contributes to local communities. Participants engage in various community projects, such as volunteering at schools, conservation centers, or local environmental organizations, actively participating in initiatives that address pressing social and environmental issues. From reforestation efforts to beach clean-ups, participants actively contribute to the preservation of Costa Rica’s remarkable biodiversity. In addition to community service, participants have the chance to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, including national parks, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches. Through guided eco-tourism activities, such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and engaging in sustainable tourism practices, participants develop a deep appreciation for Costa Rica’s natural beauty and gain a deep e understanding of the importance of environmental conservation while creating lasting memories.

High school students make hand-made tortillas in the Arcos Journeys Abroad Costa Rican cooking class.

Costa Rica is a remarkable destination for high school students looking to explore, learn, and grow through study abroad programs. Whether it’s the lush rainforests, the majestic Arenal Volcano, or the picturesque Pacific coast, this diverse country has something for everyone. And with the help of Arcos Journeys Abroad, students can fully immerse themselves in the Costa Rican way of life, gaining valuable life skills and unforgettable memories along the way. Don’t forget to read study abroad reviews and consider the top study abroad destinations to make the most of your international education experience!

An Interview with Kate Foster: Student of the Semester!

CYA student Kate Foster has been making the most of her time in Greece.

A self-proclaimed mythology fan, Kate was attracted to Greece’s rich history long before she arrived here. For her, living in Athens has provided her the chance to explore various aspects of the country’s history. She has had the chance to visit famous ancient sites from the Acropolis to the temple at Delphi to the palace of Knossos. Just two weeks ago, Kate even ran the 5k race of the Athens Authentic Marathon. But these experiences are only one part of her study abroad experience.  

As a biology major, most of Kate’s classes here are aimed to fulfill her general education requirements back at her home institution of University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. However, she has been doing much more than just studying. When she’s not in class or on CYA field trips, she dedicates a lot of her time to volunteering in the local community. Every week, Kate has been shadowing well-known surgeon Doctor Spyros Smparounis at the Metropolitan General Hospital.

When the doctor has patients, Kate interacts with them firsthand, learning about their illness and how to treat them with the Doctor. Kate even had the opportunity to witness a surgery in the room! On less busy days, Dr. Smparounis gives Kate lessons about illnesses and medical emergencies and how to treat them. As an EMT, Kate was interested in the differences between the Greek and American healthcare systems. Here in Greece, there is a universal healthcare program as well as private options. Meanwhile, in America, healthcare is mainly private. This week, Kate will sit in on a lesson from Dr. Smparounis about the cutting edge da Vinci Robotic Surgery System. Getting the chance to work closely with a renowned surgeon and developing a friendship is “once in a lifetime” Kate declared.

When she’s not working with Dr. Smparounis at the hospital, Kate also been volunteering with an organization called Medical Volunteers International (MVI). MVI is a non-profit that provides medical assistance to refugees. Once a week, Kate goes to one of their women and children’s clinics and assists doctors as they see patients. On their busiest day, fourteen patients came through during the few hours she was there. She gets to work alongside the doctors as they listen to patients about their symptoms, ask follow-up questions, and determine a diagnosis.

Unlike at many internship and volunteering experiences in the US, at MVI Kate gets to provide real input and contributions to the doctors she works with. She says that this work has given her the chance to see “what’s actually going on and how the process occurs and to look at the symptoms and go ‘okay, I think it’s this.’” Every time she goes in, she gets another opportunity to put the skills and knowledge she has gained in the classroom to the test.

One of Kate’s favorite parts of her volunteer work is that she feels she’s been able to provide more continuity at the clinic than usual. The doctors she works with are volunteering their time and efforts, so they often stay for about two weeks before switching out with a new doctor. Kate, on the other hand, has been helping at the clinic every week since mid-September. Since she has been coming for weeks now, she feels confident helping doctors recognize recurring patients and checking on their previous problems before helping them with new ones.

This is far from Kate’s first time venturing out into the medical field. She is a certified EMT, has worked in a burn clinic and trauma center, and has shadowed a variety of different medical professionals already. But even with all this experience under her belt already, she feels that her experiences here in Greece have been unique. While shadowing in the US is just “watching,” she describes her work here shadowing and with the volunteer organization as more “interactive” and “involved.” She’s had the chance to speak up and give her opinion to real medical professionals in a way that she hasn’t had the chance to in the US. While she has loved the work she has done in the US previously, she admits that “it’s one thing to learn it in the classroom but its another to actually go and to see what you’re learning in class in action and to see the consequences of it.” In her volunteer work here in Greece, Kate has gotten to witness the healing impact her help has had on real people.

This healing impact is all the more meaningful because Medical Volunteers International assists refugees. For Kate, this has been different than caring for patients at a hospital back in the US. Without the work of organizations like MVI, it can be extremely difficult for refugees to find medical care. In countries like Greece, where so many refugees have arrived in the past few years, this kind of humanitarian aid is critical. By seeing up close the situations of these refugees, Kate has gained more than just medical experience from her volunteering – she feels that her work at MVI has “opened up a whole new realm of sympathy.”

When it comes to for future CYA student who are considering volunteering, Kate’s advice was simple: “don’t be hesitant… it’s going to be great.”

For her amazing work throughout her time at CYA, Kate has been named the Student of the Semester for fall ’19! Bravo Kate!

Your How-to-Guide on Printing and Binding a Thesis

Picture this. You have been successful in creating your Bachelor’s thesis, research paper or any other final paper and spent a lot of time researching and writing. Just when you are about to submit it, you realize it needs to pass through printing and binding.

The questions any student is likely to ask when it comes to printing and binding a thesis are as follows:
“How should I print and bind my thesis?”

“Where should the printing and binding take place?”

Given that many students have not gone through the printing or binding process for their research paper before, it may be challenging to choose the right configurations. Here, we present to you all the information you need to know, telling you what to focus on when printing and binding your dissertation.

For tips on what you need to factor in, keep reading.

What you need to Watch out for when Printing your Thesis

Students tend to have the same questions when it comes to the printing process of a thesis:
– Color or white/black?
– Which paper is right?
– How should I get a fair deal when printing my thesis?

That is why we take the trouble to give you advice on how to print your thesis.

Considerations when Printing your Research Paper Tip
Color Printing: You only have two options when printing your research paper, including color or white/black. Note that printing in color can be costly. When the printing of your thesis is colored, it is likely to have pizazz. However, understand that having too much color in it may negatively impact the seriousness of your paper.
Paper: The printing shop you approach may most likely suggest 80 g/m² paper. Understand that this measurement is thin and could make your paper weak. This will cause the print on the reverse side to shine through. Be sure to get all the right details first, steering clear that the type of paper used could also affect your final mark. If your paper is 100 g/m², the quality of your thesis improves immediately. This is why some providers use 100 g/m² of their paperweight as the default.
Price: Several factors determine the printing price. That includes the color printing, the weight of the paper and the actual printing. Begin by comparing the prices offered by different providers. For instance, if you would like a color-printed paper, pick the service provider who does not demand a surcharge. You can also look for further benefits, like free shipping.

What you Must Watch out for When Binding your thesis

One of the questions a lot of students have about this step is “how”. That’s because most of them are unaware of the type of bind needed for a research paper. Understand that it all depends on the type of final paper. For instance, your thesis will require a lot more work and extensive research, while a regular term paper does not take as much time to write.

What differs between the two is the weighting. The regular term paper embodies just a small part of your overall grade while the final thesis, including the Bachelor’s and the Master’s thesis, takes the largest portion.

It means that if the final research paper is major, and you want to be sure about your dissertation, it would be very wrong to pick a simple binding, like spiral binding, as your ultimate choice. The best option, in this case, would be leather book binding because it is sturdier and more suitable for the final paper.

You need to first understand that there is a large binding selection available. Here, we shall discuss each of them to help you understand better.

Tip!
A lot of universities and post-secondary institutions have specific requirements for binding. Before printing or binding your thesis, find out if the institution has any guidelines.

That is why we would like to guide you through on the best type of binding to use, which will be entirely dependent on the final paper type being submitted.

Leather book Binding

The highest quality binding any thesis can go through is leather book binding. It comes with a leather-look solid cover, which makes a thesis appear chic and stylish. You can choose between a bookmark, corner protectors or customized embossing. Either of them should make your paper look more sophisticated.

 

 

Recommendation: The following are some of the final papers perfect with leather binding

• Dissertation
• Research paper
• Master’s thesis
• Bachelor’s thesis


Thermal Binding

Thermal binding happens to be the most versatile among all bindings. Its front cover is transparent, causing the title of your research paper to be brought to the forefront instantly. More so, it also comes with a leather-look at the back of the cover, in the color of your choice.

 

 

Recommendation: Generally, minor research projects are best presented in thermal. If you will also need print-outs of the final paper, this type of binding is perfect.

Softcover

Are you looking to make your paper more attractive and standout? If so, softcover will be the ideal choice. This type allows you to design your cover however way you desire. It enables you to use different logos, fonts, wild designs and pictures of choice. When you choose this type of binding, you can let your creativity flow in any direction. Given that it is a research paper, you want to keep it less cluttered and completely professional.

Recommendation: Use Softcover for any thesis. Note, however, this type limits you to a specific number of pages. For a comprehensive dissertation, it may not be an ideal choice.

Spiral binding

This is the simplest form of binding. It is closely similar to thermal, given that its back cover has a leather-look and also comes with a transparent front cover. The difference is that spiral binding is not glued. Here, your paper is held with spirals. Note that spiral comes in two types: metal and plastic.

 

 

 

Recommendation: For small projects, spiral is the perfect choice. It is not considered right for major papers such as research papers or dissertations.

Overview of Bindings

Below is a table for all bindings, designed to offer you an overview to help you decide on the best one for your thesis or the final paper.

  Research paper Bachelor’s thesis Master’s thesis Term paper Dissertation
Leather book binding
The most elegant and sophisticated way to bind is leather. For a major final paper such as Bachelor’s thesis, Master’s thesis or an essay, it is the perfect choice. We do not recommend leather for smaller final papers.
Thermal binding
Of all the types used to bind, thermal is the most versatile. It is the best for final papers. If you are also looking for several print-outs, it is the sleekest and most cost-effective choice.
Softcover
Because Softcover allows you to design your cover any way you wish, it is the best for creative study programs. Understand, however, that it has a limit to the number of pages you can bind, meaning it is not always the absolute choice for final papers. For a dissertation, you will have to look for another option.
Spiral binding
If you are looking for the perfect binding choice for smaller projects, spiral is your go-to solution. It can also be used in final papers such as the term papers or the research project. However, if yours is more substantial in length, think around another option.

Printing and Binding your Thesis: but where?

When it comes to printing and binding your thesis, you can choose between your local copy shop or an online service provider. We recommend beginning by looking for an online printing provider. Doing so allows you to make your orders from your comfort zone and saves you valuable time, plus, they usually have good offers. Understand, however, you are exposed to winning and losing on the online platform.

How do you benefit?

• Free shipping
• 3D preview
• Look-inside-function to browse through your thesis
• Affordable prices and high-quality paper

In our research, BachelorPrint stood out. We found the service providers to be the go-to authorities in printing and are perfect if you also need to bind. It is an online printing service for students known to offer high-quality bindings. Because they offer free express shipping, you can be sure to get your thesis soon after printing and once it has been bound.

Ensuring nothing Goes Wrong in your Thesis Printing

Because writing and printing a thesis is a major investment, the tips provided here should ensure that everything goes smoothly. Where you will have your paper printed and bound is all up to you; whether you choose to go to an online printing service or identify an actual copy shop. However, if what you need is a high-quality work and a stress-free process, then BachelorPrint is what you need.

Good luck with your thesis!

Unique Ways to Learn While Studying Abroad

The many advantages of studying abroad are well-known to most people. It is an ideal way to travel and explore a new country and simultaneously study their culture from within. Going abroad for a semester or two allows students to gain independence, while it also challenges them to improve their interpersonal and communication skills. Lastly, it is an escape, from the mundane routine of college life back home, that many a time leads to people discovering new talents and career possibilities.

However, living and studying abroad can, at times, be a little too overburdening for students. With so much to do and see, in addition to visiting one of many countries known for their study abroad programs, students miss out on what matters the most; enjoying a once in a lifetime experience. So, here are ways through which students can continue to learn and still have fun while studying in a different nation.

Stay with a Local

A lot many universities have residential options on campus. These dorms are great for when you want to live with people your age and interact with students from across the world. Still, when studying in a different country, opting to live with a local host has far more benefits. Not only do you get an inside view of how residents live but also get to experience regional food, festivals, and traditions intimately. Best of all, staying with a local also doubles up as the perfect way to practice your language skills.

Visit a Casino

Since gambling and casinos are still not legal in all countries, it is worth going into one if you get a chance while living abroad. Now, it is extremely essential to gamble responsibly and stick with only the best casino destinations in the region to avoid any issues. It is equally vital that besides playing the games, you also use this time to watch how the locals behave and act in this rather complex environment. Typically, you will meet people in classrooms or homes, but when in a place like a casino, you can really study their mannerisms for a better understanding of the local ethos.

Join Local Activity Groups

No matter your location, there are always activity groups to join for indulging in favorite pastimes. Books, sewing, hiking, photography, music; there are typically a variety of options available if you look for them. Not only are these groups often welcoming to outsiders, but they are also another brilliant excuse to get introduced into the local community. You can always make new friends at these groups and get the low down on the hidden gems of the city, which others might miss out.

Be Friendly

A slightly extrovert experiment that can lead to surprising discoveries is being frank enough to strike up a conversation with strangers. If you are wandering around the town and a local helps you with directions or a recommendation, ask them out for a cup of coffee as a goodwill gesture. You’ll find that by doing this, you can create lifelong friendships and also might have someone local to help you should a need arise. Taking the initiative to mingle with residents when overseas can go a long way, as it lets you make the most of your study abroad experience.

 

New Years Eve Traditions Around the World

While the New Year’s Eve parties, dancing and fireworks are known and participated in around the world, you might be surprised at a few of the lesser known customs. Studying abroad in another country is a great way to find new holiday routines and if you happen to be visiting in one of the following countries be sure to keep your eyes open for a few fascinating traditions.

Eating Grapes in Spain

What could watching fireworks, a clock striking midnight and eating grapes have in common? If you are in Spain it means you are celebrating New Year’s Eve. Friends and families eagerly await New Year’s Eve to share in the music, fun and excitement of country wide parties. It’s a great time to be together and experience the hope for the coming new year. At midnight on December 31st the tradition of eating grapes begins. You have 12 grapes to eat one by one, one for every time the clock bell rings. Everyone joins in and if successful, it is thought, you will have good luck through the coming year.

If Spain sounds fun to you, perhaps try a study abroad program in Madrid. Abroad101.com has over 150 programs in that city alone.

https://www.studyabroad101.com/cities/spain/madrid

Casting Tin in Finland

Similar to Spain and wishing for good fortune is the Finnish tradition of trying to guess your future and good fortune by casting tin.

Small horseshoes, which are symbols of good fortune on their own, are sold throughout Finland around New Year’s Eve. As everyone is shopping for random party items and food for the festivities you will notice the horseshoes are available to buy.

 

After the fireworks the usual custom is to give everyone you are with a small tin horseshoe. The horseshoe is melted in a pan and then quickly poured into a bucket of cold water. The shape that forms in the cold water is said to predict your future and hopefully good fortune. Just hope for no broken pieces. That, unfortunately, would mean bad luck.

Find a study abroad program in Finland https://www.studyabroad101.com/countries/finland

 

 

Brazilian Goddess and Colored Underwear

Get ready to wear white on New Year’s Eve in Rio. You not only will be surrounded by white outfits but will notice that everyone also is wearing colorful underwear. The luck you want to attract for the new year will be determined by the color of your underwear. Would you like to have money and luck? Wear yellow. Go with pink if you are looking for love and purple for inspiration. For good health a nice green will do. There are more color choices of course and when midnight strikes and everyone runs into the sea you’ll understand why picking a nice outfit and colorful underwear is so important.

The offerings for the sea

On New Years day, in Rio de Janeiro, people wear white to celebrate the Festa de Iemanjá where they run into the ocean and try to jump over seven waves. Many people also will light candles on the beach and throw flowers into the water. All of this is to honor the Brazilian godess lemanja, who it is said to have control over the water.

Study Abroad programs in Rio de Janeiro https://www.studyabroad101.com/cities/brazil/rio-de-janeiro

 

Ecuador Dummy Burning

Have you ever wanted to just leave all the bad things that happened the year before behind you? In Ecuador they celebrate New Year’s Eve by literally burning up the bad memories. It’s an unusual tradition which involves making dummies , called “Año Viejos”, of famous people or characters that represent bad memories and burning them at midnight. There is a great variety in what the dummies look like. Some are small and homemade, others are cartoon characters and some are giant dummies that are part of competitions. A list of people that have treated you badly are sometimes put inside the dummy and then when everything is burnt at midnight you can start the new year with a clean slate.

Find a Study Abroad program in Ecuador https://www.studyabroad101.com/countries/ecuador

Breaking plates in Denmark

The New Year’s Eve tradition in Denmark of throwing plates at the doors of your friends and family is pretty unusual. In the weeks leading up to New Year’s people will start to stockpile old plates. When the clock strikes midnight get your throwing arm ready. This is not looked at as vandalism but as a way to wish good luck for the coming year. If you wake up New Year’s day and have a large pile of broken dishes all over your step, you must have a lot of friends and will have much luck in the coming year!

Find study abroad programs in Denmark https://www.studyabroad101.com/countries/denmark

Wherever and however you celebrate New Year’s Eve have a wonderful time!

 

Oceania Study Abroad Programs

Oceania is an area of the world that spans the South Pacific Ocean and includes several countries and territories. This includes Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia Islands.

Students have written so many positive comments in their reviews, which explains why this destination is a very popular study abroad choice.

An unforgettable semester in Suva” – A 4 1/2 star Fiji review which includes comments such as: “So much personal growth! Go with an open mind and absorb the world around you. I learned much more about culture, the world, and myself in the last 5 months than I have in my entire life. Be willing to listen and ask questions.” or “I was able to make friends with some Fijians as well as Indo-Fijians. I would highly recommend integrating yourself as much as possible and talking with locals in class. They can be a bit shy but don’t be discouraged by that. Whenever you’re out and about in Fiji, people will make you feel like family. Also, this program includes a village stay, which was one of my favorite parts. I felt so at home and like I was experiencing the real Fiji- not just the beaches like everyone thinks!”

Students also have helpful tips about their stay. This review of a program in New Zealand had these words of advice for incoming scholars.

“New Zealand has a very different set up for gradings as there are only a few assignments which are weighted heavily, but the professors are incredibly accommodating.” Also, “We get more for our US dollar in NZ so that was always a relief when looking at the bank account.”

Abroad101.com has nearly 500 programs listed in just this part of the world. Learn more about the study abroad options available to you, read student reviews, and submit an inquiry all from our main site. There are so many options available you are sure to find the perfect program for you.

Pursuing a Postgraduate Degree Online Can be Fun

You don’t usually associate a postgraduate degree with something fun. In your mind, it entails sacrifices and changes in your schedule. You also start to think about what you need to study, and you already feel like giving up.

Before you become too pessimistic about the idea of studying online, you need to understand that it’s not the same as your experience back when you were in college. You won’t learn in a traditional classroom setting. You won’t have an angry teacher in front of you all the time. The experience is way different than what you used to have. You might even have fun while studying.

You will learn a lot of new things

When you’ve been working in your field for a long time, it feels like you already forgot what you learned back then. It also feels like you don’t get new knowledge even if you practice your profession. When you pursue an online degree, you will feel surprised with every information you get. The courses are relevant and understandable. Even when you decide to pursue an online healthcare data analytics certificate while working in the medical field, there are lots of new ideas that you can get.

You’re doing homework again

You can’t believe that after several years, you’re back to doing homework. It brings back a lot of memories when you were in college. You also have to study for tests. If your life seems to be the same each day given your work schedule, it might change this time. The break in your regular routine makes things a lot more exciting.

You feel smarter

Some professionals feel like after working with the same job description for several years, they become stagnated. They don’t learn anything new. Once you begin your online studies, you feel smart again. you learn things that you don’t get at work, but can be applicable to your job. When your colleagues ask for help, you can respond to them based on the information obtained while studying online.

You interact with more people

Even if you’re only studying online and not in an actual classroom, it feels the same in a way. You get to talk to your teacher through chats, emails and other platforms. There are instances when you have a discussion board with your classmates around. There’s always a chance to interact with many people outside work, and it expands your network. You will like you’re hanging out with the smart kids at school, and you belong to the group.

You can learn when you’re ready

The best part about online studies is that you can learn whenever you’re ready. It’s not like in a traditional classroom where you have to be present even when you’re not in the mood to study. It’s the reason why you feel like sleeping in class. You also don’t see the value of what you’re doing. When you can choose your time to study, you can absorb the lesson even more and you feel excited to learn.

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/rH8O0FHFpfw

 

 

Image credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/rH8O0FHFpfw

 

Spanish dialects around the world while Studying Abroad

So you want to study abroad to grow your Spanish skillset? Learning the second most spoken language in the world will be great for your future career, building deeper relationships, and is an extremely marketable skill. There are at least twenty countries in the world where Spanish is an official language. If you can’t visit them all, how do you choose just one? Hopefully, this blog will help you decide which one is best for you! I have studied abroad as a student, and have participated in site visits as an employee of a Spanish immersion-focused study abroad program Sol Education Abroad (SOL). At SOL, a question I often get asked is how the Spanish accents vary. In this blog I will focus on dialect and the main reasons why I have loved my time in each of the Spanish-speaking locations I have been to.

”Buenos Aires is full of public parks with art installations everywhere, like this giant bench!”

My study abroad experience took place in Buenos Aires, Argentina during the summer of 2015. When deciding which country to study abroad in, my study abroad advisor told me that Buenos Aires would be a perfect fit to build my Spanish skills. “If you can understand the Argentinian accent, you can understand any Spanish accent!”

I quickly found out she was right! Porteños, or people from Buenos Aires, have a unique accent that took some getting used to. I learned about three main differences that set porteños apart. The first difference was that instead of pronouncing double l’s like in “calle” (street) with a “ya” sound, they pronounce it with a “sh” sound. Secondly, I noticed that “vos” is used instead of “tu.” Along with this, “vos” has its own unique conjugation that I had to learn. Instead of “tu entiendes,” porteños would say “vos entendés.”

“A lovely sunset off the coast”

It was a challenge at first to adapt to these new rules, but it forced me to work harder at my comprehension skills. Interestingly, the pronunciation particularities are really only prevalent in Buenos Aires. If you travel to other parts of Argentina, you will hear a more neutral Spanish spoken. My time in Buenos Aires will always hold a special place in my heart because it was the first time I traveled by myself, and my first time riding in a subway!

For my next trip, I traveled to Costa Rica for two weeks in the summer of 2017. Luckily, the Spanish spoken in Costa Rica is extremely neutral. Some people even describe it as not having an accent at all. This makes it very easy to understand, and because of that, it is an excellent destination for first-time travelers or students who are starting to learn Spanish. I also found that everyone I encountered – host families, waiters, tour guides, and store owners – were all very patient with me and were helpful if I happened to say something incorrectly.

“The view from out host family’s house, which was amazing to wake up to”

A major reason why I love Costa Rica and think it is a perfect location for students is that it is well-suited for weekend travel. Costa Rica is quite small and has such a variety of ecosystems to discover. The bus system is simple, and if you travel with a study abroad program, your directors will usually help you book your own excursion!

“My co-worker and I at Manuel Antonio National Park!”

Next on my list was Spain! I traveled to Spain in April of 2019. First, I spent a weekend in Madrid, then two weeks in Granada.

“Enjoying the sunset in the Albaicin neighborhood in Granada”

I had always been warned about the Spanish accent and the “Spanish lisp” but had no problem understanding it. I learned that the lisp is used to differentiate the pronunciation between an “s” and “c” or “z” (which are pronounced with a “th” sound). The Spaniard accent definitely has a different rhythm than the Latin American Spanish I was used to; however, I always felt like I was able to understand everyone, so don’t be steered away from this enchanting country!

One of my favorite things about Spain, and Granada specifically, is the “tapa” culture. Tapas are a small snack that is brought out with each drink order. In Granada, these were always free, unlike the rest of Spain. If you plan it right, you can have a free “dinner” while exploring some of the best restaurants and bars that Granada has to offer!

“The tapa that came with my glass of wine – caracoles! (snails).”

My most recent trip has been to Oaxaca, Mexico. I have been living in Oaxaca for the past four months and am loving my time here! I have discovered that Spanish in Mexico is relatively neutral. There are slightly different accents depending on which part of the country you are in, much like the United States, but they have not been difficult to understand.

The Santo Domingo church in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico

One tricky thing is that Mexicans are notorious for having a lot of slang terms. It can take a while to pick up on all of them, but you’ll certainly fit in once you do! Out of all of the Spanish-speaking countries that I have been to so far, Mexico has the most slang words. I’m learning that there is probably so much slang because Mexicans like to have fun, even with their language!

Enjoying a hike through Hierve El Agua, a petrified waterfall just outside of Oaxaca

You can’t go wrong with whichever Spanish-speaking country you chose to study in! Any study abroad experience will help you advance your comprehension, speaking skills, and world-view tremendously.

The best suggestions that I can give are to stay with a host family and speak Spanish to as many people as possible. Living with a host family is where you will get the majority of your exposure to the Spanish language and immersion in the local culture. You are able to speak Spanish without judgment and your family is always happy to help you with any doubts or questions. I also encourage you to meet as many locals as possible. Speaking with locals will do wonders for your Spanish conversation skills. Hopefully, you will have the chance to travel to numerous Spanish-speaking countries and become a master of this beautiful language!

Author:

Monica Guajardo with SOL Education Abroad

Work for yourself to fund your studies abroad

Online business

Being able to study abroad is something that will literally change your life and do so in a good way. Experiencing another culture really does broaden your mind. It opens up your eyes to all kinds of ideas and new ways of doing things.

The problem is that studying is expensive. This is the case wherever you choose to do it. But, usually, if you study in your home country you can find a part-time job to cover some of the costs. If you study abroad, the language barrier and regulations can make that difficult to do. But, what anyone can do is to run an online company.

Become an affiliate marketer or dropship other people’s products

This can be done from anywhere. All you need to do is to find something that you know you can sell. For example, the products that mydoorsign makes.

Every company needs signage. Some just need to put their opening times on the door and point customers towards the toilets. While others need hundreds of signs to be able to run their business efficiently. For example, in a warehouse, every aisle and picking bay needs to be labelled.

The fact that every firm needs some kind of signage means that demand is strong. So, your chances of finding someone who needs some are high. All you have to do is to point out to them that their signage is looking a bit dated and offer to source some new ones for them.

You charge them a bit more than you will have to pay for the signs. Use the money they give you to order their new signage and pocket the difference. This is a form of dropshipping marketing.

An even easier way to run an online business is to become an affiliate for a company. Again, all you have to do is to find firms that need signage, or another product, and get them to order it via a website that you have set up. When they do, the fact that they have clicked your affiliate links in the process of placing that order will let the supplier know that order came via your sales effort. They will then pay you a percentage of that particular sale. It is a bit like a finder’s fee.

There are plenty of ways for you to learn about both of these simple ways of running a business while studying abroad. Everything can be done online, so you can use this simple business model while living anywhere in the world.

The additional benefits of running your own business

Running your own business and studying abroad is going to boost your confidence. With both experiences, you are going to learn amazing new skills. Skills that can literally set you up to succeed with whatever you want to do in life.

Self-employed people go through a lot of ups and downs, which can be tough. But, in the end, you become a resilient and resourceful individual. If you are in any doubt that running a business will be beneficial in the long run, we suggest that you read this article that provides evidence that demonstrates that it is a great idea.

 

 

Managing Your Money During Your Stay Overseas

Studying abroad costs around $13,000 in fees on average, but there are many other costs to take into account. If you move to a renowned city like London or Paris, then you can expect to pay more for accommodation, food and activities. You can save cash by moving to a country with low living costs, but you still have to be good at managing your money. When dealing with a foreign currency, it can be hard to gauge how much something costs, causing you to overspend. Luckily, there are a few simple habits you can implement to ensure you don’t run out of money during an amazing year spent studying overseas.

Research Your Destination Country

In order to budget effectively, you will need to become familiar with the price of essentials in your destination. You can find specific advice for different countries online; this review of XE Money Transfer, for example, offers particular advice for New Zealand. Being a relatively expensive country, it is important for students located in New Zealand to set their budget accordingly, while for other countries you might be able to set a less strict budget.

Convert All Your Purchases

Download a currency converter app so that you can see the exact price of everything you buy. The average person overspends when abroad, and it is very rare that someone stays within budget. This is especially true where the value of the currency is significantly lower than your own. When guessing, people tend to estimate a price to be lower than it really is, so use a currency converter to ensure accuracy. 

Furthermore, some items that are familiar in your home country may be vastly more expensive abroad, even if general living costs are lower. When you convert the price, you’ll find better deals on locally sourced products.

Explore The Options For Free Fun

Studying abroad is a time to really enjoy yourself, but this doesn’t necessarily involve spending money. If your budget is tight, think about entertainment options which don’t cost a penny. For instance, many museums in the UK are free, while other countries will have plenty of nature you can explore. This could end up being a more fulfilling and memorable experience than that things you pay for.

Studying abroad is an amazing experience, so don’t ruin it by landing in financial problems. Do your research beforehand, keep a close eye on currency conversion rates, and explore free entertainment options. With these three tips, you will find it easier to properly manage your finances while studying overseas.