Alina is a Program in the Environment and Economics major! She studied abroad in 2024 on the SFS Panama: Tropical Island Biodiversity Studies program.
Don't Forget To Pack: Thin pants (protect from bugs), extra sunscreen, ear buds, cheap flip flops/sandals to wear around campus, dry bag, backpack for hiking, a journal
Best Left At Home: waterproof notebook, hiking boots, clothes you can't machine wash/dry
Best Eats in the Area: Bocas sandwich shop, Leafeaters
Favorite Local Activity: Scuba diving with Panama dive! Or hanging out at Bambuda downtown
Where to Study: Amaranto coffee shop, Cat in the Cup, Pipas beach, the loft on SFS campus
Must-Try Local Dish: The classic fish sandwich at leafeaters, empanadas on isla popa
Best Photo Op: Underwater during scuba diving or by the giant trees on Solarte
Your Biggest Fail: Not laying out in the sun more
Buy This: Bocas bracelets, potholders from street shops
Not That: Sunscreen and bugspray in Bocas stores
Most Interesting Class: Environmental Governance Development and Conservation
Best Part of the Program: The close knitted family students form!
Unforgettable Weekend Trips: Swimming bioluminescence under the stars, Bambuda on Isla Solarte
Bonus Pro Tip/s: Take lots of time to journal and read!
