Fifty years of undergraduate scientific field research in the Associated Colleges of the Midwest (ACM) Costa Rica program.

The importance of preparing students for global citizenship and the development of intercultural competency in an increasingly interdependent world has long been recognized by many higher education institutions in the United States. Experiential learning through study abroad is one means of achieving this goal (Brewer & Cunningham, 2010). For decades, Costa Rica has offered a stable, welcoming and culturally rich environment for study abroad programs. For undergraduate students interested in pursuing further studies and academic or research careers, the opportunity to develop field research skills is a valuable tool. To carry out professionally guided research with the cultural and linguistic preparation afforded by study abroad not only provides students with academic and cultural development, but it may enable them to make a significant contribution to the host country.