UC offers experiential learning abroad in Central America

Rivera in picturesque Costa Rica for study abroad. Photo/Provided.

"As soon as I found out that you could study abroad during college, I knew I wanted to do it," says Rivera. "I never got to travel much growing up-my family didn't have money for us to go on vacations, so before this I had never even been outside the states."

Studying abroad through A&S allows students to advance their degrees in multiple ways. They have an opportunity to engage with diverse academic perspectives, learn from renowned faculty at partner institutions, and explore subjects within a global context.

By immersing themselves in different cultures and environments, students develop a broader understanding of their fields of study and acquire unique perspectives that can enrich their coursework and research.

Rivera was enrolled in the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC). USAC provided ways for study abroad students to meet locals.

"One of my favorite ways I got to interact with other students on campus was through the'Tico Friend Program'. I met so many Ticos-which is a nickname for Costa Ricans-that I still follow on social media and talk to today," says Rivera. The locals she met were friendly and welcoming, she said, adding that they enjoyed talking to Americans and practicing their English.

UC student Stephanie Rivera during a study abroad program in Costa Rica. Photo/Provided

Studying abroad also offers students a head start on their resumes before graduation. Through internships, research projects or community engagement activities, students can gain practical experience in their respective fields while being exposed to different cultural and professional contexts.

These experiences demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and a global mindset, helping give graduates a competitive edge in the job market and preparing them for future careers that demand cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Throughout her time in Costa Rica, Rivera got to explore most of the country beyond the limits of the city she was staying in-Heredia, which is located in the Central Valley region about 30 minutes from the capital. "I got to travel almost every weekend. I visited La Fortuna, Monteverde, Jaco, Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Panama, Bocas del Toro, San Jose often, Tamarindo, Samara, and several small cities and towns in the mountains," she explains.

Beyond academic growth, studying abroad Rivera rekindled her love for life and revealed her strengths and weaknesses, she says. This immersive experience instilled in her a profound sense of self-awareness and clarified her aspirations for the future.

Featured image at top: Building with Costa Rican flag. Credit/ jconejo for Pixabay.