Congratulations on your acceptance to the Health and Health Care in Costa Rica program! You are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, one that may change your life. The Mizzou Study Abroad staff is here to help in any way we can, but remember: The final responsibility for success on this program rests with you. One way to help ensure success is to prepare adequately and learn as much as you can before you go. This orientation and the Mizzou Abroad Orientation will help you do just that.
This orientation information has been developed to help you prepare for your upcoming term abroad and give you some tips to help you get around once you are in Costa Rica. Please read all information carefully and use it in conjunction with other informational materials you receive from your program leader and host institution.
One note about this orientation: times change. If you find information here that is no longer accurate or relevant, make a note of it and bring it to your adviser’s attention so it can be updated for future study abroad participants. Unfortunately, we can’t be in Costa Rica on a regular basis, so we rely on you — our in country experts — to ensure our information is accurate and relevant.
Here are a few quick tips to help you adjust successfully in your new environment:
- Keep an open mind. Don’t allow stereotypes to warp your view of Costa Rican life. Be willing to listen, learn and observe in order to gain a better understanding of your new environment and its people.
- Expect the unexpected. Like at home, you’ll have good times as well as bad ones. Don’t blame it on the fact you’re in a different country. Try to see challenging experiences as learning experiences. Keeping that in mind will help you maintain a balanced mindset. Adventures are a part of travel.
- When in Rome… Immerse yourself in all the other cultural elements of Costa Rica. Take an active interest and engage yourself in what your Costa Rican peers enjoy, whether celebrating traditional holidays or participating in social customs and pastimes. You will benefit tremendously by learning to appreciate and getting involved in the diversity of Costa Rican culture.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, don’t forget that you are a guest in a foreign country. Respect the people and their country, customs, laws and language. You will be less likely to offend people and more likely to enjoy your time abroad in a country that you will hopefully be able to call your second home.
Updated 26-SEP-2022