Costa Rica: Field Research
San Jose and field sites, Costa Rica
The ACM Costa Rica programs give students an in-depth experience with the people and culture of this beautiful, diverse nation. Independent field research is the primary focus of the spring semester program. At sites across Costa Rica, students complete projects in the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. Since the program began in 1964, many participants have gone on to professional careers related to their research experience in Costa Rica.
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
October 31, 2008
Spring 2009 semester
March 15, 2009
Spring 2010 semester early application date
Do I need to apply early?
The early application date is available for students whose college requires that all off-campus study applications for the entire upcoming academic year must be completed the prior spring semester. If your college does not require a spring decision for programs the following spring, you may simply apply by the regular application deadline.
October 15, 2009
Spring 2010 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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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
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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