WI 1101:  Cultural Diversity & Service Learning in Costa Rica

Country Director: Susan Frishberg
Program Dates:  Monday, January 2, 2012 – Saturday, January 21, 2012
3 credits

Course Description

Cultural and Service Learning in Costa Rica is designed to increase student understanding of cultural diversity through both classroom instruction and first-hand experience working with local people on community-based, service learning projects. Students will explore a variety of ways to document their experiences and learning: in writing, discussions, and group activities.

Program Overview 

The Service Learning trip to Costa Rica is a 3 credit 1000-level elective course, designed to increase student knowledge of Costa Rica through first-hand experience. Students will travel to the majestic mountains of Monteverde in the northwest and to the culturally diverse region of the Caribbean Coast.

Cost of program: $6,000 

• Total cost of $6,000 includes housing and round trip flights from U.S.
• Most meals are provided.
• Price does not include individual spending money.

Application Process 

The application deadline is October 14, 2011.  Preference will be given to students who apply by that date.  Thereafter, we will accept qualified applicants on an ongoing basis until the program is filled.  Applicants must be in good standing academically and judicially.

A completed application form, including a short personal statement and recommendations from your advisor and RD are required.

Application Forms

1. Application Form [DOC]
2. Resident Dean Recommendation Form [DOC]
3. Advisor Recommendation Form [DOC]

Submit completed forms to:  Kathleen Fortier, EAB, Room 224 - or send as an attachment to:  kfortier@landmark.edu

Questions?  Contact the program director at sfrishberg@landmark.edu  or the Study Abroad office at  studyabroad@landmark.edu or at the Study Abroad office in EAB 224.
Space is limited: apply soon!

Attention

Survival Spanish Course

If you are not proficient in Spanish, we recommend (but do not require) that you take the one-credit Survival Spanish course which will be offered at Landmark later in the Fall semester. This will provide you with some basic vocabulary and phrases which will help you get the most out of the program and increase your ability to communicate with people.

Costa Rica is a beautiful and exotic place, and the program will bask in this beauty, but students should be aware that the living and working conditions will not resemble a resort vacation. Conditions will be comfortable but rustic. The service learning project will involve some labor, but nothing a healthy student would have any trouble with. Applicants are expected to be in good physical shape.

If you have challenges with sleep, rustic living conditions, encountering insects and animals, or have any questions about Costa Rica, please contact the country director BEFORE you apply.