UNIVERSITY OF PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
UPEI business students study abroad in Costa Rica through Maymester initiative

Twenty UPEI business students spent 12 days in Costa Rica in May, learning about various sustainable tourism development practices and business models, through a Maymester program developed by the University's Faculty of Business and its Office of Study Abroad and International Partnerships.

Dr. Melissa James, Sherilyn Acorn, and 20 UPEI business students in Monteverde Biological Station, a conservation facility in the tropical cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Rica. 
 

Known as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, Costa Rica provided the students with opportunities to learn how sustainable tourism businesses and organizations began and how they demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and best environmental practices as the centre of their operations. Led by Dr. Melissa James, associate professor of business, and Sherilyn Acorn, Study Abroad manager at UPEI, the students learned about local environmental initiatives in San Jose and toured a chocolate factory, a local campus, and an environmental park. While in Manuel Antonio National Park, they visited a sustainable organic coffee operation and a bee farm, and learned about other rural development initiatives. They also experienced the biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and learned about tree planting and conservation in the area. The entire experience was planned in collaboration with Costa Rica Global Learning Programs.

When they returned to PEI, the students, under the guidance of Dr. James, developed and presented strategies and recommendations to the Prince Edward Island tourism industry, , which connected their learning and experience in Costa Rica to the local level.

Reflecting on her time in Costa Rica, student Allison Weatherbie said, "I returned home inspired to further educate myself and others on sustainable practices that may be implemented on Prince Edward Island."

Through Universities Canada offering the Global Skills Opportunities (GSO), the Office of Study Abroad provided domestic students with funding for this experience. This funding has increased the overall number of students who have been able to participate in UPEI's international exchange programs.

The Office of Study Abroad and International Partnerships was pleased to host this successful Maymester program and plans to organize similar experiences in May 2024. 

To stay informed about upcoming Maymesters, visit UPEI Study Abroad.