A Glimpse Into the First Week of High School Summer Abroad in Costa Rica

As the calendar turns to a new year, many students begin thinking about what’s next: new goals, new challenges, and experiences that will stay with them long after summer ends. For those studying abroad with CIEE in Monteverde, Costa Rica, that sense of “what's next” comes to life during orientation week. 

There’s something magical about arriving in Monteverde for the first time. For high school students beginning their summer abroad experience with CIEE, the journey starts with rolling green hills, a cloud forest humming with life, and the warm welcome of a campus community that quickly starts to feel like home.

Orientation week is all about settling in, connecting with others, and getting a first taste of Costa Rican culture and the academic themes that shape each program. Whether you're here to explore environmental action, climate change, or conservation biology, the first week is designed to immerse students in the unique rhythm of Monteverde life—where hammocks and monkeys are part of your daily routine.

“I have had such a blast on campus so far!” said Jess Holan, a student in the Women for Environmental Action program. “Everyone here is super kind and I feel like I have known them forever. I am looking forward to the next few weeks!”

From morning classes to group activities and cultural workshops, students ease into their new environment while making fast friendships and lifelong memories. The mix of structure and free time gives everyone a chance to both learn and explore at their own pace.

“At first, everything felt super new and a little overwhelming,” shared Magnolia Godshall, also in the Women for Environmental Action program. “But the campus in Monteverde is so beautiful and peaceful that I settled in fast. Now I spend most of my time relaxing in the hammock outside my bungalow, reading a good book while surrounded by trees, birds, and the coolest views I’ve ever seen.”

Life on campus encourages balance: students participate in sustainability projects, dynamic lessons, and team-building games—while also soaking in the slower pace of the cloud forest lifestyle. It’s not uncommon to see classmates playing guitar, enjoying a game of soccer, or swapping stories as the sun sets over the mountains.

“I think my first week was amazing,” said Joey Adams, from the Climate Change Mitigation program. “I would wake up each morning and sit on the porch listening to the birds. At any point in my free time I would be playing music and playing games with friends. The classes are very engaging and the activities are awesome. Overall I think the first week was very great and a change in lifestyle.”

As “pura vida” begins to take on real meaning, orientation week sets the tone for a summer filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable adventure. For those wondering what the first week of study abroad is really like—it’s a little bit of wonder, a little bit of challenge, and a whole lot of community.