Medical Volunteer/Spanish Immersion in Heredia

  Costa Rica

• North Western Region: 
Heredia,  La Fortuna
• Central Pacific Coast: 
Manuel Antonio

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: February 24 - March 24, 2010

Description: There is a 2-week and a 4-week option for this program, which combines intensive medical Spanish language learning with community service projects and excursions throughout the country.
Participants live with a Costa Rican host family and take Medical Spanish courses each morning. The afternoons are spent volunteering on projects including:

- Working alongside local health care providers in clinics for the underserved
- Setting up new clinics
- Preventative health education
- Health fairs in schools

Highlights: Trip excursions include:

- Surfing/Kayaking/Beach time in Manuel Antonio National Park
- Zip Line Canopy Tour
- Hiking/Hot Springs near the Arenal Volcano

Cultural Opportunities include:

- Learning to cook traditional Costa Rican food
- Leaning to dance the Salsa & Merengue

Qualifications: This program is open to health care professionals, medical students, and their spouses.

Cost in US$: $3,959 - 4,700

Cost includes airfare, private in country transportation, lodging, language school tuition and materials, guided tours, national park entrances, beach and volcano weekend excursions, most meals, and travel insurance.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Medical professionals, aspiring medical professionals (students) and their spouses. The age of participants really does range from the early 20's to the mid-50's. Most have some experience with Spanish (although not necessarily) and are dedicated to learning Medical Spanish to help serve their Spanish-speaking patients at home. They have a strong desire to help those who lack quality medical care, but also want have a good time experiencing the culture and natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Age Range: 20's-60's

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Costa Rica in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 10-20

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Common Ground International's Mission Statement: Common Ground International, LLC provides high quality Spanish and English Language services to individuals, professionals, and organizations. It is our goal to bridge the language and culture gaps between Spanish and English speakers here in the United States.

Year Founded: 2002