Mother and Son Duo Experience First-Ever Study Abroad Trip to Costa Rica

July 19, 2024

Virginia Union University (VUU) is excited to highlight Ameena Coley, a devoted parent from Baltimore, Maryland, who went on a life-changing trip to Costa Rica with her son, Luqman Ssengo, a junior majoring in Mass Communication at VUU. This trip marked the first experience of Luqman's mother and son studying abroad.

"My first interest was just to go and see exactly what my son would be up to," Ameena Coley said. "I wanted to ensure his environment and experience were safe.”

While in Costa Rica, Ameena and Luqman immersed themselves in the local culture and academic environment. Ameena participated in several activities alongside her son, including sitting in on Spanish classes for two days, attending a welcome dinner in the mountains, and going on an excursion to San José.

Despite facing challenges with communication due to language barriers, Ameena and Luqman utilized technology to bridge the gap. This experience not only helped Ameena improve her Spanish language skills but also provided Ameena with a broader perspective on cultural differences.

"I think it was a wonderful thing even to get an opportunity to see where your children may be and some of the things they may be experiencing," Ameena reflected. "It gives you a good insight into different cultures and can broaden your understanding of how people do things in other countries."

The duo’s journey to Costa Rica has made her more well-rounded in understanding other cultures and has given her a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences. Looking ahead, she is now more comfortable letting Luqman travel abroad independently and even considering accompanying him on future study-abroad opportunities.

“I learned so much during my trip with my mom, and I think other students could benefit from studying abroad,” Luqman said. “Even though it was difficult to pick up on the language, I was really excited to lean into my study time during our classes.”

When asked about her advice to other parents, Ameena encouraged them to embrace similar opportunities.

"I would tell them to go for it and keep an open mind. I think it would be a great experience,” Ameena said.