Institute for Study Abroad

Scenes from Eden’s day trip to Owhiro Bay in Wellington, New Zealand 📷
“One of Wellington’s main spots to visit is the seal colony at Owhiro Bay. Two of my flatmates and I took a short bus ride and walked around three miles along the coast. The views on the way were stunning and we stopped every 20 feet to take pictures. From the bay, you could even see the South Island of New Zealand. The seal colony was all around the rocks, lounging in the sun. Having such quick and easy access to locations like these are what makes Wellington so special.”
- Eden D. (University of Puget Sound, IFSA Victoria University of Wellington Partnership program)

Nestled in the mountains between Cartago and Limón, Nairi Awari has been home to the Cabécar people since 1991—roughly 500 residents who continue to preserve their ancestral traditions and spiritual connection to the land. 🌿⁠
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Despite being recognized as an Indigenous territory, parts of their ancestral land remain unacknowledged by the state, challenging their efforts to reclaim and protect it. Through initiatives like Tsiobata, a community-led ethnotourism project, the Cabécar people share their heritage with visitors while advocating for environmental conservation and territorial justice. This powerful cultural exchange reminds us of the need to uplift Indigenous voices and support their fight for recognition and rights. ✊🏽

✈️ Getting ready to take off on your study abroad adventure? Don’t forget the essential travel documents you’ll need, like a valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining after your program end date), your student visa, and more! Processing timelines can take weeks, so be sure to plan early. Planning ahead makes all the difference –Scroll to see our checklist and quick tips, and read our full Guide here: https://ifsa-butler.org/guide/study-abroad-travel-documents/

🌿 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.

Chihiro is spending the semester in Costa Rica, soaking up the language, culture, and stunning natural beauty 🇨🇷🌿 Through the IFSA Universidad Nacional Partnership program, she’s taking classes in Spanish alongside local students—total immersion style!

When she’s not in class, you’ll find her hiking through rainforests, diving into cultural experiences, and making the most of every moment. Check in later for more updates from Chihiro!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💜 Heading abroad soon? 🌍
Your adventure is just beginning—but don’t leave your mental well-being behind. We’re sharing expert tips from Jennifer F., IFSA’s Head of Health, Safety, and Wellbeing, to help you prepare for a fulfilling and balanced experience abroad. Swipe to learn more and take steps to boost overall mental health abroad.

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!

Chasing trails and dreams 🌍🚴‍♂️⛺📚 From mountain biking through rugged landscapes to hiking epic peaks, camping under the stars, and attending classes—study abroad in New Zealand is the ultimate adventure for IFSA Correspondent, Japhy! 🇳🇿 Japhy is studying at the University of Otago Partnership program. He chose this program to explore the wildlife and nature of New Zealand, engage with New Zealand’s history and it’s deep Māori roots, and share his experience along the way!

Talk about opportunity! 📢 We’re awarding three IFSA Spring 2026 programs each worth up to $25,000 to three students. That means you could soon be packing for the semester of a lifetime in Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, Australia, or China.

Start your application today https://ifsa-butler.org/special-offers-2026/

Terms & conditions apply.