Applications open for May 2022 study abroad experience in Costa Rica

14 Sep 2021     By Kelcey Buck

After a two-year hiatus due to the ongoing pandemic, professor of practice Sue Kemp is looking forward to once again leading the annual study abroad experience in Costa Rica in May 2022. 

The two-week program, which will take place May 14-28, 2022, provides students with opportunities to interact with a variety of students in both private and public schools in Costa Rica. After the initial few days in San José, the group will spend the remainder of the trip in Monteverde, a rural mountain town about 100 miles northwest of San José. The Monteverde Institute (MVI) serves as liaisons during the visit, arranging school visits, while also teaching the Husker students about the importance of eco-tourism and sustainability to the Monteverde region. 

Kemp has led this study abroad experience five times previously, taking a total of 54 students on those trips. Professor of practice Kristy Weissling will join her as a co-leader for the first time in 2022. 

“I am super excited to return to Monteverde as I’ve developed close relationships with the staff at MVI, the teachers in the local schools, and the families of the hosts for the homestays,” Kemp said. “I know they are excited for us to return as well, and to welcome our students into their schools and homes.”

In addition to the school visits and conducting assessments in reading fluency and comprehension at two private schools, Husker students have opportunities to be immersed in Costa Rican culture by living with host families and visiting the nearby cloud forest and coffee farm, as well as other local attractions. 

“I also can’t wait to show the beauty of Costa Rica with a new group of students and the best way to see the beauty is the ziplining through the cloud forest,” Kemp said. 

The Costa Rica study abroad experience is open to undergraduate students, with preference given to students majoring in special education or communication sciences and disorders. Click here for more details and to submit an application. The deadline to apply is Feb. 1, 2022.