International Studies Abroad Launches Spring Break Volunteer Program

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- International Studies Abroad (ISA) is proud to announce the kickoff of its Spring Break volunteer program for undergraduate students in Costa Rica for the Spring of 2010!

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Students continue to flock to Costa Rica for its variety of undergraduate level course offerings and accessibility of ecotourism and adventure travel. According to the 2009 Open Doors report by the Institute of International Education (IIE), students studying in Costa Rica grew by 13.2% from 2007 to 2008. For students that are unable to take advantage of a year or full semester abroad, spring break options are emerging as an ideal alternative to gain international experience.

ISA, has facilitated study abroad programs in Costa Rica since 1998 having sent roughly 3,500 students since its inception. ISA is now launching its Tenorio Volcano Spring Break programs this March. These programs were started in response to the growing trend and interest in ecotourism and sustainable development, in combination with students looking to travel with a purpose.

This week-long program is packed with activities that include studying ecotourism and sustainability in the rainforest with local experts, volunteering with park rangers in Tenorio Volcano National Park, experiencing the Tico culture, and exploring cloud forests from a zipline.

"In our continued efforts to offer diverse study abroad options for our students, we have identified an emerging trend that students are looking for non-traditional spring break options. We knew that having a short-term program with a focus on volunteering and sustainable development would not only be popular, but an opportunity for students to gain valuable international experience," says Bill Clabby, Executive Vice President of Research and Special Programs at ISA.

The Tenorio Volcano Spring Break program includes educational lectures, volunteer projects, cultural activities, lodging, meals, medical insurance, pre-departure advising and an on-site orientation. It is offered in two sessions, March 13-20 and March 21-28, 2010 and application due dates have been extended until February 1st, 2010. For more information about the program, contact Program Director, Rachel Rothermel at [email protected] or 800.580.8826 for more information.

Founded in 1987, ISA is a provider of international education - fostering global awareness one student at a time through academic programs in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and North Africa. ISA's service-oriented staff prepares students to develop intellectually, grow culturally, and engage the world through affordable university programs of the highest quality.

SOURCE International Studies Abroad (ISA)