Costa Rica Explorations is an authentic cross-cultural, community service-based, adventure-learning program that works with student groups of all ages.
Costa Rica Explorations
 

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Program Terms • Fall • Spring • Summer • Winter • Academic Year • Year Round Program Participants • Undergraduate (College) • Graduate (College) • Teenagers • Children • High School • Parent and Child • Adults Subject Areas • Biology • Culture • Education • Environmental Studies • High School Program • Latin American Studies • Social Work • Spanish		Quick Look • Location: Turrialba, Osa Peninsula, Cahuita, Drake Bay, Progreso, - Costa Rica • Language of Instruction: English/Spanish • Academic Credit Available: Yes Overview Costa Rica Explorations (CRE) provides students of all ages with a cross-cultural experience in which they can gain a more compassionate perspective of the diverse cultures of the world. Using an experiential hands-on approach, through community service projects, homestays, & adventure travel, participants are able to develop greater self- confidence, leadership techniques, independence, and team-building skills. We strive to open students' eyes to their own capabilities of being able to make a positive difference in the world. CRE offers two program options; private contracted courses organized through host teachers as well as open enrollment summer programs for individual students. These programs are for educators and participants ranging from middle school to college graduate school. Each program consists of 3 phases. Every program begins with the Orientation Phase. Participants will get acquainted with the group, staff, and country while participating in daily outdoor adventures like white water rafting, hiking volcanoes, touring rainforests, horseback riding and zip-line or canopy tours. The main portion of each program is the Homestay & Community Service Project Phase. Participants will become part of a Costa Rican family. Live, play and learn within a Spanish speaking community. Service projects are the focus of our programs. Students work side-by-side with community members to accomplish common goals while bettering an entire community. Each program finishes with the Adventure & Travel Phase. Celebrate, reflect, relax, and explore Costa Rica's beautiful countryside and beaches. Everyone will be rewarded with beautiful sunsets and picturesque beaches. We will try one of the many adventure sports Costa Rica has to offer and definitely visit one of Costa Rica's many National Parks. Academic Credit Academic credit is available.  Community service / volunteer hours are accepted Eligibility General assesment and approval by doctor or physician Housing/Accommodation • Homestay / Host Family Participants in a CRE program are paired up and placed within a reputable and proven Costa Rican family homestay. Every homestay family is personally interviewed by CRE and tested before being utilized. Program Costs All private contracted programs are customized to the educator/teacher's desired itinerary and inclusions. A typical 10-12 day CRE program starts at $1,800 / student. Costs Include:  This program tuition includes all in-country expenses; accomodations, in-country travel, 3 meals a day, adventure tours and educational field trips. This does not include airfare to and from Costa Rica or the participant's $50 - $100 service project donation. Financial Aid Yes. Based on a screening interview with CRE participants can submit an essay indicating their financial needs. CRE is able to offer partial scholarships to qualified and motivated participants. Dates We typically partner with educators who want to host a hands-on, volunteer experience for their students in a foreign country. We arrange for private programs throughout the school year or over the summer vacation. Our courses typically range from 10-15 days in length. CRE will work with the host educator every step of the way. The educator is responsible for finding interested students wthin their class and at their school. Costa Rica Explorations takes care of all of the paperwork, and in-country arrangements. CRE can also take care of flights to and from Costa Rica for the group. The best part is that the partnering educator will go for free if 8 students participate! Each year CRE hosts one open-enrollment program in the summer - July 14-26, 2009. Potential program dates: Throughout the school year - Spring Break, Winter Break, Summer Vacation, Fall Break Contact Costa Rica Explorations 3022 Fawn Drive Park City, UT 84098 USA Tel: (314) 808-7232 Email Send Email Web Visit Website
Important Notes: This information was provided directly by the school/organization for inclusion on the Study Abroad Links directory, and is subject to change without notice.  Inclusion on the directory does not imply our endorsement of the program. Please be sure to verify all information directly with this school/agency/organization. Study Abroad Links is not liable for any errors, omissions, or misinformation on this profile or on any listings in the directory.   Academic Credit: Your school may not accept credit earned as a result of studying abroad for this program, or any program included on the Study Abroad Links directory. If you are seeking academic credit, it is essential that you consult with your school to ensure that the school and program you are considering meets their requirements for awarding credit.