Experience the history, culture and business of Latin America through the lens of social innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. While experiencing the rich culture of Costa Rica, you will visit a variety of companies to learn about entrepreneurial initiatives, social innovation, microfinance and sustainable business practices.
Past visits have included Funcacion Mujer, CINDE, Cafe Los Volcanes, Zollner and Cargill. The program has also featured a walking tour of historic San Jose; a visit to Cartago, home to many coffee cooperatives; and time on either the Caribbean or Pacific coasts to see famous Costa Rican sunsets.
Note: Due to COVID-19, the program will be a virtual learning experience for spring 2021. Details below.
“Completing a practicum project in Costa Rica has been life-changing. It was amazing to be immersed in a different culture. I was there to create a fundraising strategy for a nongovernmental organization and was able to help this organization provide aid while personally learning and growing.”
— Jake Kinley, MBA ’19
The Costa Rica program is a credit-bearing, virtual learning experience for the entire spring 2021 semester. In the course, you will virtually visit socially minded organizations, meet local leaders, and learn about and participate in cultural experiences related to Costa Rica's history and traditions, language, food and dance.
In addition, you will complete a social impact and entrepreneurship-themed project throughout the semester and participate in a global challenge to cap off the program. With this virtual experience, you can develop your global and diversity mindset—from anywhere in the world.
Note: For all credit-bearing spring 2021 virtual experiences, there is no additional program fee.
Ensuring the health and safety of our students, faculty, alumni and business partners is our top priority. For fall 2021, due to the ongoing pandemic, all international programs will be virtual learning experiences, with possible travel during the winter semester pending university health/safety policies. Fall 2021 Experience the 50 (U.S.-based) programs are being planned for concurrent virtual and in-person experiences, with the option to shift fully virtual if necessary.
Dorothy Siaw-Asamoah
Clinical Associate Professor, Organization and Human Resources
Faculty Director of Global Programs
Alan Belicha
Director, Business Development and Industry Engagement
Business and Entrepreneur Partnerships
University at Buffalo