Why I Decided to Learn Spanish and Surf in Costa Rica

Andrea Holt

CSI Student

 

Several years ago I decided to learn Spanish.  I knew that immersing myself into a Spanish speaking area and studying abroad were in my future.  I did what I often do when I get an idea and began researching how to make this idea become a reality.  I stumbled across Costa Rica Surf Institute, which offered a Spanish and surfing lesson combo. with its sister school, CSI 

Goldmine!  Immediately, I knew this was a brilliant fit for me as learning to surf was on my agenda anyway.  Furthermore, I assumed I would go brain dead with too much study and not enough physical action.
The balance between an academic challenge and a physical challenge really spoke to me, so I went.  I studied at CSI for a month back in 2010 and I have not been the same since.  Turns out I loved to surf and I loved learning Spanish (most days, sometimes my brain hurt).  Being able to exercise my body and my mind in such a fun setting was an awesome experience.  Plus, practicing Spanish while waiting in the line up was a great combination!  I’ve returned twice since then and will be going back again this fall.  

Take home points:

 

• Immersion is key when learning Spanish

 

• Exercising the body and the mind helps cement learning

 

• Practicing Spanish while out on the waves is also fun!

 

Pura vida,

 

Andrea