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Toucan Abroad

Why choose Toucan Abroad?

Join Toucan Abroad and other students from around the US in this highly enriching program. We aim to expand your perspective and grow into future leaders in the field of physical therapy through exposure to the work of licensed PT specialists. You’ll shadow them while they provide expert patient care. Evolve by developing a more holistic view of yourself, your future profession, and the world through immersion into a different society.

For two weeks, you’ll engage in 40 clinical observation hours in different PT specialties. You’ll also have time to bask in the breathtaking natural beauty of Costa Rica and experience its rich culture.

Toucan Abroad gives you the opportunity to stand out among other PT school applicants through a unique, unparalleled experience abroad through this program.

Reviews

Default avatar
Gabriel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Toucan Abroad - Seville Experience

My experience in Seville through Toucan Abroad was truly something unforgettable. Not only was everyone very inclusive and kind from the moment we all met, but the personal and professional memories made alongside each and every one of them made it even more special. For anyone wanting to explore the physical therapy profession while also being immersed into a new culture abroad, I highly recommend embarking on this journey with Toucan Abroad. It truly makes a difference being with like-minded individuals who are pursuing the same career. Without question, this program solidified my focus and confirmed my decision to pursue physical therapy as a career.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Whatever may be inducing any second thoughts about joining the program, ignore it and just join! It is one of the best investments you will ever make as a pre-pt student who is still gaining experience and exploring the profession! Doing this abroad is definitely a plus when it comes to being included and getting involved with hands-on experiences.
Pros
  • The excellent, super chill directors.
  • The group members you learn and adventure with.
  • The opportunity to immerse yourself in an unfamiliar environment for personal and professional growth.
Cons
  • No
  • Cons
  • Whatsoever
Default avatar
Josephine
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Unforgettable Toucan Abroad Experience

Participating in the Toucan Abroad program was truly the best experience ever. Not only did I gain an incredible amount of knowledge and insight into the field of physical therapy, but I also made unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships. From hands on learning opportunities to immersive cultural experiences, every moment was filled with growth and excitement. I had the chance to observe and engage with professionals in real clinical settings, which deepened my understanding of physical therapy far beyond what I could learn in a classroom. But what truly made this journey special were the people I met along the way. The friendships I formed during this trip are ones I’ll cherish forever we laughed, learned, explored, and supported each other through every new adventure. If you’re considering Toucan Abroad, do it. It’s more than just a program t’s an experience that will shape your personal and professional life in the best way possible.

What was your funniest moment?
A few of us decided to go on a joke and went off the trail! Unfortunately, this was very dangerous but we all made it through and made the best memories, the funniest jokes were founded and i would not have changed it for the world!
Pros
  • the Spanish culture
  • Seeing physical therapy from a different perspective
  • The people
Cons
  • a very big group: feel pressure to do everything together
  • not as much independent explore time as i had hoped
  • spent a LOT of money
Default avatar
sophia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Spain 2025 Summer (Sesson 1)

This experience was by far the most career-solidifying physical-therapy experience I have ever had. Being able to be culturally-immersed in a Spanish-speaking country for 3 weeks while constantly learning new things about physical therapy (manual manipulation, technology, techniques) was the coolest experience of my life. Amazing staff/director; put together an extremely fun, yet organized program. If I could do it again I would every time, given the opportunity. Thank you Toucan Abroad & Staff ! #T4L

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Do everything. You can only get out of this trip what you put in, so make sure to try and see everything, taste everything, ask as many questions as you can, and learn as much as you can. This is an incredible opportunity! Don't leave anything on the table!!
Pros
  • Meeting New People
  • Spanish Immersion
  • Physical-Therapy Education
Default avatar
Eldon
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

From Curiosity to Life-Changing Adventure: My Unforgettable Toucan Abroad Experience

I never imagined that a simple Instagram ad would lead to one of the most life-changing experiences of my life. Out of curiosity, I applied to Toucan Abroad, not knowing that this one decision—at the perfect time—would set me on a path to meeting some of the greatest and most amazing people in this world.

This internship was more than just an opportunity to shadow incredible physical therapists and learn fascinating techniques across different clinics—it was an adventure, an experience that shaped me in ways I never expected. I never thought I’d make lifelong friends while halfway across the world, but that’s exactly what happened. The memories we made together, the laughter, the late-night talks, the shared awe of experiencing a new culture—it’s something I’ll cherish forever.

Meeting and getting to know Phil was an absolute privilege. He had this way of always keeping the mood light, making us laugh, and somehow always knowing exactly what to say. Whether he realized it or not, his words inspired me and pushed me to be the best version of myself. I’ll always look up to him for that.

Writing this review took me a while because putting these thoughts into words makes it feel like this experience, those moments, and all of our adventures together are now officially just memories. And while I constantly look back at photos and videos, trying to relive every second, I am beyond grateful that I took this leap. Toucan Abroad changed my life, and if you’re ready to take that same leap of curiosity, I know it will change yours too.

What was your funniest moment?
All the stories Phil told us about his past adventures! If you wanna know them you'll have to go on this trip to find out!!
Pros
  • The people
  • The city
  • The planned events/trips
Cons
  • Jet-lag
  • leaving and saying goodbye to everyone
  • not going for longer
Default avatar
Emily
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Experience in Costa Rica

I absolutely loved my time in Cartago this January. The directors were friendly and supportive, I became close with many of my peers on the trip, and I was able to learn so much about both physical therapy and the Costa Rican culture. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a way to get out of their comfort zone, but still be in a safe and supportive environment. The experiences I had in Costa Rica are truly unforgettable and I look forward to an opportunity to go back some day!

What would you improve about this program?
I would improve the communication of information before the trip departure to include more details and be relayed further in advance, but once I was there everything worked out wonderfully.

Programs

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Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Ashleigh Lenick

Job Title
Social Media Manager
Ashleigh is the Social Media Manager for Toucan Abroad. Not only does she work for the company, but she also participated in the program in the Summer of 2019.
Ashleigh Lenick

What is your favorite travel memory?

One of my favorite travel memories was during a spontaneous trip to a waterfall in Costa Rica.

I remember driving through the Costa Rican jungle thinking “Wow I’m really out here in Costa Rica living my best life with such amazing people.” My pure joy overcame me at that moment. When have I ever before just decided to go to a random waterfall that turned out to be so beautiful?

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Since working for Toucan Abroad, I’ve grown a stronger interest in the field of physical therapy. Toucan Abroad has made me have a better appreciation for physical therapy techniques and the ability to share my love for becoming a PT will fellow students who have the same passion.

I love being able to share my love online and connect with so many people.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

My favorite story from a returning student would have to be from all the amazing friendships made during the sessions. So many people who meet in Costa Rica continue their friendships after the program whether it be in the same hospital shadowing other PTs or visiting each other all over the country. I personally have had the honor to meet so many people through this program from all over North America.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I may be biased but the summer programs that are 3 weeks long were some of the best days I’ve ever had. Three weeks in a foreign country sounds intimidating, but those 3 weeks flew by so quickly. The weather in Costa Rica is amazing during the months of May-August.

The larger programs are so much fun because everyone gets involved as a group to have a blast at shadowing or during the travel weekend trips.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

I love that this program is specifically designed for gaining hours toward your PTCAS application. That is something that no other program I’ve found to offer for students wanting to pursue a DPT degree. But also allows travel time for the participants. The program gives everyone just enough guidance and freedom to learn, explore and have fun!

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I think the biggest factor in the success of the company would have to be how every person who goes on the trip has the time of their lives, then tell their friends who apply for the next trip. Many of our participants applied because of recommendations from previous students. That speaks volumes for the integrity and excitement our company offers.