Location

San Jose, Turrialba, Cocles, La Fortuna, Nicoya, Tamarindo, Sarapiqui , Costa Rica

Program Description

There are two Costa Rica FLOW programs, with slight differences. The PURA program is in May and the VIDA program is in June. This page is for the June program (VIDA). The May program can be found here.

Get ready to explore all the wonders of Costa Rica and immerse yourself in Pura Vida. In Costa Rica FLOW: VIDA students will engage in the lifestyle and dietary approaches of indigenous and diverse cultural groups that contribute to longevity and lifelong well-being. In this cross-country tour, students will experience the agricultural and rich culinary traditions of different regions while also engaging in mindfulness and physical activity practices.

This program will consist of two courses:

• In the Global Nutrition course, students will address social/ cultural, geographical, and political influences on diet and well-being.
• In the mathematics course, students will discover and apply relevant mathematical and statistical topics related to nutrition, health, and travel.

Students will learn nutrition, health, mathematical, and statistical theories through lectures, guest lectures, readings, and videos. They will also experience and immerse themselves in these practices through data collection, tours, fieldwork, and activities such as authentic cooking classes, walking, hiking, meditation, and conservation. The courses will facilitate opportunities to reflect on the intersection of theories and experiences. Through it all, students will integrate nutrition, health, mathematical, and statistical concepts to explore and better understand these ideas and learn how to let go and go with the FLOW.

CHBS Newsletter about Costa Rica FLOW!

Location Description

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that not only embraces lush landscapes and breathtaking biodiversity but also holds the keys to health and well-being. As you explore Costa Rica's vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, delve into the lifestyle factors that contribute to a well-rounded life of purpose, community, and cultural tradition. From the pristine beaches to the lush rainforests, Costa Rica offers an immersive study abroad experience where you'll learn not only about the country's unique cultural heritage but also valuable lessons in health and happiness.

Director

Celestine Woodruff | woodruca@jmu.edu | Mathematics & Statistics

Michelle Hesse | hessemx@jmu.edu | Health Professions

Accommodations

Accommodations will be provided for students through a number of proposed lodging options including: lodging through dormitory-style housing, hotels, motels or eco-lodges with access to internet. Students will be expected to share double rooms.

All meals will be provided as part of the program and included in the program fee. For some meals, we will prepare communal meals (costs for communal meals will also be covered in the program fee).

Additional Items to Consider

Some activities will require physical exertion including hiking in the rainforest and mountains, yoga, climbing stairs and walking.

A raincoat and/or light waterproof jacket is necessary since we will be in the rainy season. Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are necessary.

We would also like for the students to bring laptops. (Please apply even if you don't have one and we will work to see what we can do.)

Outlets and voltage are the same as in North America.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0

Open to all class levels and majors, including graduate students. 

Spanish is not required, although speaking some Spanish would be a plus.