What Should I Do With My Free Time?

Arenal Volcano

One of the key things to remember while studying abroad is that not everything will go your way.

There will be ambiguous points in your trip where you will wonder what to do with your time. For me, it was adjusting to the “Pura Vida,” while maintaining my studies, and traveling. For other international students studying at Veritas University, it has been what do in their “free time” now that they don’t have an 8 a.m. Spanish class, or what to do with their 2 hour break in between classes.

Instead of seeing time as an obstacle, try to embrace all that it has to offer.

Monochronic vs. Polychronic Societies

*Monochronic Society = United States of America

More connected to productivity; needs are adjusted to meet the needs of time

“Time is money;” “Late is rude”

*Polychronic Society= Costa Rica

More flexible, less structured; time is adjusted to suit the needs of the people

It’s not necessary to do things one at a time; you can do several things simultaneously

 

Yes, you do have a block of time in between classes. What would be constructive and productive to do during this time?

Have you been to the university library yet and checked out their awesome movie section? Have you eaten lunch at the local soda around the corner? Have you chatted up the guards and asked them about life in Costa Rica?

Are you finished with your homework? (Better question: Have you started your homework?)

Have you worked out today? Maybe go play soccer with some Ticos.

Do you need to work out after class? Go to dance class!

Have you been to any of the museums in downtown San Jose? Are you interested in where to go to buy shampoo? Go with some friends to find a store nearby and get to know your new neighborhood.