Institute for Study Abroad

🌿 Exploring Cabécar Culture 🌿⁠
As part of their Spring 2025 journey, IFSA students took a powerful step off the beaten path—venturing into the Cabécar Indigenous territory of Nairi Awari. Guided by Tsiobata, a community-led ethnotourism initiative, they hiked through breathtaking mountains between Cartago and Limón, connecting with ancestral traditions, language preservation, and the deep ties between the Cabécar people and the natural world. An unforgettable glimpse into Costa Rica’s living heritage.

Rachel is spending her study abroad semester in Shanghai, China, where the city’s fast pace and rich history offer the perfect setting for both academic growth and personal connection 🇨🇳🌆

As part of the IFSA Study in Shanghai Social Sciences program, she’s diving into coursework on Chinese politics and culture—an ideal match for her International Affairs major.

Beyond academics, Rachel’s journey is deeply personal. With both of her parents from China, this is her first time living and traveling in the country on her own. She’s connecting with her heritage by embracing traditions and experiencing the everyday life of the country that shaped her family’s story.

Nicolas is living the study abroad dream in Valparaíso, Chile 🇨🇱✨ He’s diving deep into the language, culture, and unreal landscapes—fulfilling his Spanish immersion academic requirement and getting closer to his roots (his dad is from Chile!).

Living with a host family means daily life is full of incredible homemade meals and nonstop Spanish practice. When he’s not studying, you’ll find him catching live music, making local friends, and exploring everywhere from the mountains and beaches around Valparaíso to the surreal landscape of the Patagonia region. 🌎🎶 Stay tuned for more content from correspondent, Nicolas!