NEIA's Transformational Study Abroad Experience at UWC Costa Rica
We were honored to host the 12th-grade class from the New England Innovation Academy (NEIA) for a customized, week-long educational program that embodied our mission at UWC Costa Rica in powerful, tangible ways.
At UWC Costa Rica, we believe that education should not only inform—it should inspire action, foster connection, and cultivate purpose. Our mission is to empower young people with the passion and skills to serve both humanity and the planet. Through our Sustainability & Innovation Center, we create immersive, faculty-led experiences and custom rental programs for educational groups, making this mission accessible to students and educators from around the world.
Connect with us today to start designing your next meaningful program abroad.
A Purpose-Driven Itinerary: Learning Through Nature, Culture, and Community
NEIA's study abroad journey in Costa Rica was designed to spark curiosity, global awareness, and a sense of agency. The week-long itinerary, developed by our team at the Sustainability & Innovation Center, integrated place-based learning, cultural exchange, and sustainability education—perfectly suited for school groups, college programs, and educational organizations looking for meaningful group travel rentals and academic retreats.
Throughout the week, NEIA students:
- Explored permaculture and regenerative agriculture on our campus farm, learning how sustainable food systems can nourish both people and the planet
- Visited a wildlife rescue center, engaging with conservation professionals and understanding Costa Rica’s leadership in animal rehabilitation and biodiversity protection
- Embarked on rainforest hikes and hanging bridge adventures, discovering firsthand the complexity of tropical ecosystems
- Participated in cultural immersion, including visits to local coffee farms, strawberry producers, and artisan markets, deepening appreciation for Costa Rican traditions and community resilience
- Engaged in daily reflection sessions, guided by UWC Costa Rica facilitators, to connect learning with personal growth, values, and global responsibility
These weren’t just educational activities—they were transformational learning moments, preparing students to become global citizens equipped for leadership, collaboration, and action.
Building Global Connections Through Community Living
One of the most impactful aspects of NEIA’s visit was the opportunity to engage with our diverse international student body. Shared meals, informal conversations, and friendly volleyball matches fostered real connections—highlighting the power of intercultural exchange and community living.
These moments remind us that at UWC Costa Rica, education is as much about relationships and empathy as it is about knowledge. Through our residential rental offerings for faculty-led groups and study abroad programs, we make it possible for schools to live and learn alongside a vibrant international community.
Host Your Next Faculty-Led or Study Abroad Program in Costa Rica
We are incredibly grateful to NEIA for partnering with us and bringing their energy, openness, and enthusiasm to our campus. Their experience reflects what we strive for in every partnership: a values-based, hands-on learning journey that leaves a lasting impact.
If your school, university, or organization is seeking a customizable faculty-led program, study abroad experience, or educational group rental in Costa Rica, we’d love to collaborate. Whether your focus is on sustainability, intercultural leadership, or experiential learning, our programs are designed to align with your goals while offering students a transformational learning experience in a safe, inspiring setting.
Connect with us today to start designing your next meaningful program abroad.
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Our mission: To cultivate in young people the passion and ability to serve humanity and our planet—learning from nature and from each other for a lifetime.
San José, Costa Rica. 10901.
+506 2282 5609 | info@uwccostarica.org
San José, Costa Rica. 10901.
+506 2282 5609 | info@uwccostarica.org
All Rights Reserved | UWC Costa Rica © 2025