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Johanna Miriam Simmerman, Sophomore, Blacksburg, VA
I learned more in two weeks in Costa Rica than I ever have in a
semester in the classroom. I picked up a lot of the language very
quick. I learned a lot about the culture, the history, and the people
of the country. But more importantly I gained a new perspective on
the world. You can read a million books about different cultures but
until you experience them, throw yourself in them, you are only seeing
10% of the picture. Going to Costa Rica was one of the best things I
could have done, in terms of education experience. I recommend any
and all students to study abroad at least once if not more. I plan on
studying abroad again, as many times as I can.
Adam W. Hembree, Class of 2008, Virginia Beach, VA
I think that more students could benefit from overseas seminars,
especially ones designed by faculty such as Prof. Miller with her
continually growing expertise in the culture and history of the
destination. The Seminar in Costa Rica has opened me up to the wide
range of political, economic, and cultural issues of Central America
that I believe many people lack the understanding of due to not
actively studying the country first hand. My current understanding of
Costa Rica will directly affect my outlook on other countries of study
due to its shockingly wide range of issues that not only affect Ticos,
but Americans as a whole because of our growing international presence
as well as lack of cross-cultural awareness.
Mia Johnson, Class of 2008, Gloucester, VA
I never in a million years thought that I would have a chance to study
abroad in a foreign country. When the opportunity to take a class in
Costa Rica presented itself to me, I knew I had to go. Costa Rica
turned out to be far more beautiful than I could ever have imagined.
The people were amazing, the food was fantastic, and the sights were
terrific. I not only learned about the country's rich history through
books, but I was able to visit various locations that played essential
roles in the development of Costa Rica as it is today. Throughout the
two weeks I spent in Costa Rica, I fell in love with the people and
the country. The Seminar in Costa Rica really reaffirmed my reasons
for studying Spanish. It is my hope that with my degree in Spanish I
will be able to show others that Hispanic cultures have rich histories
and beautiful stories that need to be told.
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Testimonials |
