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Costa Rica: Latin American Culture & Society

San Jose, Costa Rica

The ACM Costa Rica programs give students an in-depth experience with the people and culture of this beautiful, diverse nation. The fall semester program, Latin American Culture & Society, immerses students in daily life in Costa Rica through language study, home stays with families, field trips, and courses on contemporary social, political, and environmental issues. 

Costa Rica is:

Central American ...

With their neighbors, Costa Ricans share:

  • the Spanish colonial heritage,
  • a developing economy traditionally dependent on the export of coffee and bananas,
  • a close but occasionally contentious relationship with the United States, and
  • issues of poverty, public health, and environmental conservation.

Unique ...

  • Costa Rica abolished the army in 1948 and has a long tradition of relative social peace.
  • “Ticos” (as Costa Ricans like to call themselves) are committed to universal health care, social programs, and democratic government.
  • In 1975, Costa Rica created a network of national parks and reserves that are a model for the region and have drawn scientists and ecotourists from around the world.

A great place to learn!

  • The country boasts diverse climatic and ecological zones, from tropical rain forests to mountains to active volcanoes.
  • The Costa Rican government and people are very welcoming and accessible.
  • For over 40 years, ACM students have found open doors, friendly interviews, and abundant opportunities to experience Costa Rica.

Application deadlines

March 15, 2009

Fall 2009 semester

While preference will be given to students who have met the application deadline, late applications may be accepted on a space-available basis.

If the application deadline has passed and you are still interested in applying for a program, please submit your application immediately and contact the ACM Office.

Program contacts

Heather Everst
Program Associate

205 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 220
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: 312.263.5000
Fax: 312.263.5879
heverst@acm.edu

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Costa Rica: Latin American Culture & Society

All the staff is willing to help in whatever way they can, and teachers are always available for out of the classroom talks. Mariela takes genuine concern for her students, academically and emotionally. They took such good care of each of us, asked about our families, kept up on what was going on in our lives, and helped us with everything!

—Past participant, Costa Rica

Michelle Nikolai When I look back on my experience in Costa Rica, there are so many memorable moments- I learned so much about the culture, the language, and the people while I was there. My little abuelita taught me to cook picadillo de papas and keep a positive attitude. I learned how to navigate through the countryside even after my bus broke down. The natives of Guatil de Santa Cruz taught me how to turn clay into beautiful pottery. Above all, the scenery and people were amazing!

—Michelle Nikolai, Costa Rica 2005

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