Alumni Spotlight: Johayne Cabey

Why did you decide to study abroad with AIFS at Veritas University?

Johayne: I decided to study abroad with AIFS at Veritas University, because it seemed as if the program offered many things I would want. The school being in close proximity to my homestay location played a big role in my decision. Also, the fact that there were many excursions offered in the price of the program fee. AIFS seemed as if they would do all that they could to make my study abroad experience a very comfortable one.

Johayne making a friend in Costa Rica! What's he holding in his left foot?

What made your study abroad experience unique and special?

Johayne: One of the things that made my experience enjoyable was undoubtedly my host family. Living in a Costa Rican household gave me a first-hand experience of the culture. I got to have a variety of Costa Rican cuisine every night, and I also grew very close with my "Tica Familia." Meeting people from all over the world was also something that made my experience unique, because this was the first time I was surrounded by such a diverse group of people.

Johayne and her host mom, or 'Mama-Tica'

How has this experience impacted your future?

Johayne: This experience has impacted my future in such a major way. Foremost, it allowed me to open my eyes to the lifestyle that other people lived. It showed me that people on the other side of the world are just the same as people here. While we may have differences in the way we do things, we also have many, many similarities as well. Going abroad has also peaked my interest in traveling the world and seeing other places. Living in Costa Rica for 4 months has shown me that I can do anything. This trip has shown me that I can survive anywhere and language is not that big of a deal. As long as you have a dictionary in hand, the world is yours!