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Laura S.
New York, NY
Student: 1996 / 2008 / 2009

"I first discovered Conversa while a graduate student in social work. I wanted to learn Spanish via immersion and travel in a foreign country. Costa Rica proved to be accessible and beautiful. Conversa proved to be the best choice in terms of learning. The teachers were friendly, warm, and supportive. I was shocked to realize each day I'd spent HOURS speaking Spanish...even as a beginner. My host family was generous, kind, and patient. I found myself speaking Spanish after school and into the night with my Mama Tica. My successes boosted my self-esteem and I began to believe that becoming bilingual was within reach! 12 years after my first experience at Conversa I was fortunate to return as a social work educator. I was excited to accompany a group of graduate students and walk with them through the same experience I'd had years before. As I watched them exit the plane, and congregate on the sidewalk outside the airport, their excitement and nervousness was palpable. But I knew what they didn't...that they were about to have one of the most memorable, productive, and adventurous experiences of their lives. Conversa is an absolute gem. I cannot speak more highly of the campus, staff, and host families in Santa Ana, or of the online classes via Conversaconmigo.com (of which I've fallen in love with because of their affordability and enjoyability). I feel very fortunate to have been led to Conversa so many years ago. Thank you Conversa for all you do to make learning fun and achievable!"