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New Summit Academy graduates leave Costa Rica not only with the impressive RESUME one builds while studying abroad, but with a unique set of skills, a clearer understanding of their values, increased autonomy and self-governance, the capacity to see things from different viewpoints, flexibility and adaptability, and a renewed drive to pursue their path. We were fortunate to sit down recently with a few of our graduates and their parents who shared perspectives on student life, growth at NSA and the impact our school had on themselves and their families.
"Aventura was really fun and I learned a lot...having the opportunity to be in a new culture and learn about a new place - it was really cool for me."
"After NSA I feel like I am someone who can work hard and succeed in the real world with true relationships and with healthy relationships."
"I feel like now I am able to go out and achieve what I want to do. I have the ability and mindset to...achieve each of these."
"Any moment, any class, any activity...something can happen and you'll create a deep memory that's very important."
"They gave him skills, they increased his awareness, they helped him with daily routines and habits as well as just how to ask for help when it's needed."
"In terms of our family dynamics, NSA allowed us to have more open and honest conversations and created more connections amongst us all."
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Each quarter, New Summit Academy teachers and students collaborate in developing rigorous, dynamic classes which challenge students to develop academic skills along with strengthening skills in executive functioning, time management, interpersonal relationships, and more.
A few highlights from this quarter include:
English Literature and Composition classes studied the art of Creative Nonfiction, vocabulary development, literary devices, interviewing skills, and increasingly-sophisticated writing techniques.
Students then conducted interviews with a family member about a universal human experience that occurred before students were born, and then applied their learning by crafting compelling creative nonfiction "Family Legends" about their subjects.
Students then conducted interviews with a family member about a universal human experience that occurred before students were born, and then applied their learning by crafting compelling creative nonfiction "Family Legends" about their subjects.
Beginning through Advanced Spanish students are learning more complex grammar this quarter and have been learning about the different provinces of Costa Rica in Spanish class.
Students researched the geography, flora, fauna, culture, and traditions of each province, and presented to the community what they learned.
Students researched the geography, flora, fauna, culture, and traditions of each province, and presented to the community what they learned.
In Algebra II classes students learned about statistics and representations, dispersion measures, and how to use them to analyze different data sets. While in Precalculus, they studied the exponential and logarithmic functions, the relationship between them as inverse functions, and the properties and graphs of each, and concluded with the solution of exponential equations.
In Geometry, classes focused on 3 types of conics - parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas - learning the definitions, characteristics, formulas, and the elements that compose them. Algebra I students learned ways to write a quadratic equation, including the properties, domain, range, and vertex, along with factoring techniques to solve quadratic equations and find the roots of functions.
In Geometry, classes focused on 3 types of conics - parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas - learning the definitions, characteristics, formulas, and the elements that compose them. Algebra I students learned ways to write a quadratic equation, including the properties, domain, range, and vertex, along with factoring techniques to solve quadratic equations and find the roots of functions.
Photography classes took on advanced techniques of using the camera in manual mode and the relationship between f-stops, shutter speeds and ISO.
With this knowledge, students were able to take images with intention, employing lens selection, depth of field control, creating or capturing motion, and understanding soft, hard, and reflective light.
With this knowledge, students were able to take images with intention, employing lens selection, depth of field control, creating or capturing motion, and understanding soft, hard, and reflective light.
NSA’s Documentary Filmmaking class studied the elements that compose a documentary, along with off axis, direct to camera, and “man on the street” interview techniques.
Using this knowledge, each student created a personal journal that traced their life up to the point of entering NSA. Using direct to camera self interviews, interviews with parents, archival videos, and still pictures of their lives at home and of current events during their stay in NSA, the students examined their lives in a very personal and profound way.
Using this knowledge, each student created a personal journal that traced their life up to the point of entering NSA. Using direct to camera self interviews, interviews with parents, archival videos, and still pictures of their lives at home and of current events during their stay in NSA, the students examined their lives in a very personal and profound way.
World History students concluded their semester-long study of Yuval Noah Harari’s Homo Deus, exploring Humanist ideologies and their role in conflicts like WWII and the Cold War. They examined how modern science views humans and all life as biochemical algorithms and how new technologies challenge limits on mortality, happiness, and abilities. Students then researched and wrote papers on the future implications of these advancements.
U.S. History and Government students studied history, current events and predictions for the future through a geopolitical lens, focusing on how geography influences interactions. The course was divided into three parts: The Past (ancient history to 1944); The Recent Past (the past 80 years); and Some Predictions (future opportunities and challenges). For their projects, students researched and presented arguments on why specific countries might join or leave U.S. alliances or competing systems.
Meanwhile, the other U.S. History and Government class explored U.S. foreign policy from 1800 to the present, focusing on smaller diplomatic and military engagements between major wars, from the Barbary Wars to the Boxer Uprising. Students began research projects on how geopolitical factors, technological advances, and political will contributed to the U.S. becoming a global superpower, with this work continuing next quarter.
In Humanities class, the quarter theme was “The Complexities of Gender.” The class studied the potential mental health, developmental, and self-image impacts of culture, mass media, and social media on teen and young adults caused by the inundation of concepts, images, and representation of gender, masculinity, and femininity. In their projects, students conducted, recorded, presented, and reflected on in-depth, focused interviews on these topics with members of our community.
U.S. History and Government students studied history, current events and predictions for the future through a geopolitical lens, focusing on how geography influences interactions. The course was divided into three parts: The Past (ancient history to 1944); The Recent Past (the past 80 years); and Some Predictions (future opportunities and challenges). For their projects, students researched and presented arguments on why specific countries might join or leave U.S. alliances or competing systems.
Meanwhile, the other U.S. History and Government class explored U.S. foreign policy from 1800 to the present, focusing on smaller diplomatic and military engagements between major wars, from the Barbary Wars to the Boxer Uprising. Students began research projects on how geopolitical factors, technological advances, and political will contributed to the U.S. becoming a global superpower, with this work continuing next quarter.
In Humanities class, the quarter theme was “The Complexities of Gender.” The class studied the potential mental health, developmental, and self-image impacts of culture, mass media, and social media on teen and young adults caused by the inundation of concepts, images, and representation of gender, masculinity, and femininity. In their projects, students conducted, recorded, presented, and reflected on in-depth, focused interviews on these topics with members of our community.
In Music Studio Technology and Live Performance Combo, students either enhanced their traditional instruments, worked on software-based music production, or focused on lyric writing and recording projects.
By the end of the quarter, they presented their progress and demonstrated significant skill development.
By the end of the quarter, they presented their progress and demonstrated significant skill development.
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“You know, now is a good time to focus more on yourself. Your son is having his needs met and you can use this time to explore what you need. What does your self care routine look like?”
I laughed. Self care? After the whirlwind of activity and emotional turmoil of investigating the best psychiatrists, therapists, consultants, evaluations, wilderness programs, and schools for my son, the concept of self care was as foreign and distant to me as the Costa Rican school where my son received support. But oh, it sounded like it could be a saving grace. Had the dust settled enough where I could focus on myself a little? Where would I begin and how could I develop a healthy lifestyle rather than just applying a one-off bandaid?
As parents of sons who are in crisis, we often find ourselves juggling countless responsibilities and putting our own well-being on the back burner. It is easy to become laser focused on the crisis at hand and maintain that focus on our sons even after the storm has passed. I was no exception, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted trying to meet the needs of my family, but still determined to put my son first. Although I embraced the therapy and parent support that New Summit Academy provided, I wasn’t making day-to-day changes for myself outside of anything that focused on my son. Through therapy, I realized that helping myself by reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and incorporating mindfulness would help my son’s and my relationship in a broader, more lasting sense. But where to begin?
Enter parent coaching – a supportive and empowering resource that helped me bridge the gap between understanding the value of self-care and actually incorporating it into my daily routine. My coach worked with me to develop a personalized plan that aligned with my unique circumstances and goals. Together, we explored practical strategies for integrating self-care practices and mindfulness techniques in a way that felt natural and sustainable.
Through coaching, I discovered the power of setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and embracing moments of stillness amidst the uncertainty and struggles of parenting a son who demanded time and attention. These were all concepts that I had worked on in therapy, and coaching helped me put the concepts into practice. I learned that taking care of myself is essential for my well-being and my ability to show up fully for my family.
To all the parents out there who may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck, I want to offer you this gentle reminder: you deserve to prioritize your own needs and nurture yourself. Therapy and parent coaching can be powerful, complementary tools on your journey towards greater self-awareness and well-being.
You are worthy of all the care, love, and support you give to others. May your journey be filled with compassion, growth, and moments of grace along the way.
Thanks for reading,
Anissa
I laughed. Self care? After the whirlwind of activity and emotional turmoil of investigating the best psychiatrists, therapists, consultants, evaluations, wilderness programs, and schools for my son, the concept of self care was as foreign and distant to me as the Costa Rican school where my son received support. But oh, it sounded like it could be a saving grace. Had the dust settled enough where I could focus on myself a little? Where would I begin and how could I develop a healthy lifestyle rather than just applying a one-off bandaid?
As parents of sons who are in crisis, we often find ourselves juggling countless responsibilities and putting our own well-being on the back burner. It is easy to become laser focused on the crisis at hand and maintain that focus on our sons even after the storm has passed. I was no exception, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted trying to meet the needs of my family, but still determined to put my son first. Although I embraced the therapy and parent support that New Summit Academy provided, I wasn’t making day-to-day changes for myself outside of anything that focused on my son. Through therapy, I realized that helping myself by reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and incorporating mindfulness would help my son’s and my relationship in a broader, more lasting sense. But where to begin?
Enter parent coaching – a supportive and empowering resource that helped me bridge the gap between understanding the value of self-care and actually incorporating it into my daily routine. My coach worked with me to develop a personalized plan that aligned with my unique circumstances and goals. Together, we explored practical strategies for integrating self-care practices and mindfulness techniques in a way that felt natural and sustainable.
Through coaching, I discovered the power of setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and embracing moments of stillness amidst the uncertainty and struggles of parenting a son who demanded time and attention. These were all concepts that I had worked on in therapy, and coaching helped me put the concepts into practice. I learned that taking care of myself is essential for my well-being and my ability to show up fully for my family.
To all the parents out there who may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck, I want to offer you this gentle reminder: you deserve to prioritize your own needs and nurture yourself. Therapy and parent coaching can be powerful, complementary tools on your journey towards greater self-awareness and well-being.
You are worthy of all the care, love, and support you give to others. May your journey be filled with compassion, growth, and moments of grace along the way.
Thanks for reading,
Anissa
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Change is hard. Add a new country, new peers, new teachers, and a new place to live and it can certainly seem overwhelming, especially to a teenager. That’s why at New Summit Academy the orientation phase begins before a new student even sets foot on an airplane! Prior to enrollment, applicants are set up with a Student FAQ packet and then a video chat with 3-4 current students who answer all their questions and create an initial social connection before arrival.
Once on Pura Vida soil, current students mentor new students to learn the ropes and settle in. What’s my schedule? What are the rules here? How do I ask for what I need? When do I get to use my cell phone? The Orientation period can feel overwhelming and also exciting. The latter (exciting!) is what our most recent new students experienced this past weekend when they embarked on their first Aventura with their peer mentors to Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall.
In three short days, students enjoyed a coffee tour, shared life stories, visited Poas volcano, completed a high ropes course, and snacked on the delicious local strawberries while going over NSA handbook rules, tasting local casados and cafecito, and hiking La Paz waterfall gardens and wildlife refuge.
It is surely an orientation trip they will not forget as they packed in great memories with their peers as they immersed in Costa Rican culture.
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New Summit Academy students are also talented artists, photographers, filmmakers, and musicians
Our creative students engage in Arts and Elective classes weekly, taking advantage of NSA's acoustically-designed Music Studio, recording and mixing room running on Pro Tools, and documentary film editing suite using professional-level AVID software.
Recent projects that students have been working on include:
- A photographic collaboration with a local animal shelter to boost adoptions
- A documentary film featuring our campus dog Estrella and her connection with staff
- A complete student-performed and produced musical album available on streaming platforms
- A performance by a local professional musician recorded and engineered
- A nature-based photography competition
Almost half of our student body takes weekly guitar lessons with a talented local musician, and our Documentary Film students are even currently working on films exploring their journeys to and experiences at New Summit Academy!
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Costa Rica? (eyes widen, jaw drops)... Why do we need to go to Costa Rica? Can’t we find supportive schooling and therapy here in our home country? Sure, you certainly can. But what NSA and The Bridge offer is beyond what CAN be offered in the USA.
- The impressive RESUME one builds while studying abroad is unique, enriching and sets apart your job or college applications. Spanish language and cross-cultural communication skills. Service projects. Travel. Clarification of values through cultural immersion. Ability to take perspectives, be flexible and adapt. Internships to learn work ethic. Revitalization of motivation to follow a particular career path. Autonomy and self-governance. The list goes on and on…
- The Costa Rican CULTURE itself IS THERAPEUTIC. Take the pressure down a notch. Slow down to connect with yourself and those around you. Live in an environment integrated with nature. Prioritize community. Support and be supported. Learn skills that build confidence and competence. Find within you what you have to offer the world around you.
All of that makes sense and sounds wonderful… but it “feels” so far from home!
How will I feel connected?
Direct flights from ATL (4 hrs), MIA & IAH (3hrs), NYC and LAX (5 hrs). We’re only 25 min from the airport once you land.
Our commitment for enrollment is 4 months at The Bridge and 6 months at NSA. Students say it flies by and about 80-85% of those who commit for the minimum time ask to stay longer.
Our commitment for enrollment is 4 months at The Bridge and 6 months at NSA. Students say it flies by and about 80-85% of those who commit for the minimum time ask to stay longer.
Need a medical leave from your home school, boarding school or university? NSA & The Bridge are perfect for that too - take a time out to recenter, reset healthy routines, build up your skill sets in a more supportive environment and then head back to school rejuvenated and ready.
NSA’s annual calendar is 5 academic terms. That means home visits happen about every 8-9 weeks with 2 week holiday breaks in July and December. The opportunities to spend time with family, travel together, even attend your favorite summer camp you’ve been going to since a child - these opportunities are ALL possible at NSA.
Our academic terms are broken up with a monthly adventure trip in the middle. These digital detoxes are fantastic opportunities to break up the academic routines and bond socially.
Whether kayaking or hiking in one of Costa Rica’s amazing national parks… or exploring the cultural riches of Panama City, Panama, these adventure trips are often the biggest and best highlights of our student’s experiences as they gain confidence, perspective, and lots of memories with their NSA peers and staff.
Before you know it, you’ll be standing at the podium, reflecting on the last few months of your life. How do you want to remember it?
Whether kayaking or hiking in one of Costa Rica’s amazing national parks… or exploring the cultural riches of Panama City, Panama, these adventure trips are often the biggest and best highlights of our student’s experiences as they gain confidence, perspective, and lots of memories with their NSA peers and staff.
Before you know it, you’ll be standing at the podium, reflecting on the last few months of your life. How do you want to remember it?
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At New Summit Academy (NSA), education isn't just about textbooks and lectures; it's a process of discovery that shapes futures and empowers tomorrow's leaders. As we reflect on another remarkable academic year, we are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our exceptional students from the Class of 2024.
Crafting Futures: The NSA Advantage
NSA's academic program goes beyond traditional college preparation. We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Our curriculum is designed to engage students in rigorous, college-preparatory studies while also cultivating students who graduate with a diverse set of experiences that set them apart from their peers. We do so through a rich curriculum that includes:
1. Cultural Immersion and Global Competencies
2. Service Learning and Volunteer Work
3. Interpersonal Skills -(and living away from home in dorms)
4. Leadership Experiences
2. Service Learning and Volunteer Work
3. Interpersonal Skills -(and living away from home in dorms)
4. Leadership Experiences
5. Professional-Level Certifications
6. Metacognitive Understanding of Learning Strengths and Challenges
7. Self-Advocacy Skills
Where Dreams Take Flight: College Acceptances
One of the hallmarks of NSA's success is the impressive range of colleges and universities that our students are accepted into each year. The Class of 2024 is no exception, with members securing spots at prestigious institutions such as, but not limited to:
- The University of Southern California
- McDaniel College
- Pitzer College
- Loyola Marymount University
- Curry College
- Santa Clara University
- Lewis & Clark
- The University of San Diego
- Connecticut College
- Miami (Ohio) University
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Gonzaga University
- The University of Denver
- Dickinson College
- Allegheny College
- The University of Connecticut
- Elon University
- Gettysburg College
- Merrimack College
- UNC Asheville
- Bard College
These acceptances not only reflect the academic prowess of our students but also the holistic preparation they receive at NSA.
Investing in Excellence: Merit Scholarships and Beyond
We are immensely proud to announce that this year's senior class has been offered over $2 million in merit aid, with an average award of nearly $75,000 per student! Colleges and universities recognize the resilience, self-awareness, and leadership qualities instilled in NSA students, making them deserving recipients of such prestigious awards.These scholarships not only validate the dedication and hard work of our students but also reflect the caliber of education provided at NSA.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future Awaits
As we bid farewell to the Class of 2024, we do so with great excitement for the journey that lies ahead. Equipped with a unique blend of academic excellence, global awareness, and interpersonal skills, we have every confidence that our graduates will continue to make a positive impact on the world around them. Wherever their paths may lead, they will always carry with them the spirit of New Summit Academy. On behalf of the entire NSA community, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2024.
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When families first hear “therapeutic boarding school in Costa Rica,” the most common reaction is: “Why Costa Rica?”
The answer? Because Costa Rica doesn’t just support healing; it embodies it.
At New Summit Academy, our students experience the therapeutic benefits of this vibrant country every single day. From the culture and climate to the pace of life and opportunities for adventure, Costa Rica offers a unique blend of safety, growth, and connection that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere.
The answer? Because Costa Rica doesn’t just support healing; it embodies it.
At New Summit Academy, our students experience the therapeutic benefits of this vibrant country every single day. From the culture and climate to the pace of life and opportunities for adventure, Costa Rica offers a unique blend of safety, growth, and connection that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere.
Here’s why Costa Rica is the best country for therapeutic support, and why families from around the world choose to send their sons here.
1. The Culture Itself Is Therapeutic
Costa Rica has earned its reputation as one of the happiest, most peaceful countries in the world. The culture is built around connection, presence, and community - values that many students in high-pressure environments desperately need to reconnect with.
Here, students learn to:
Costa Rica’s famous saying, “Pura Vida” (pure life), isn’t just a slogan. It’s a way of living that encourages thriving over just surviving.
2. Immersive Nature = Natural Regulation
From mountain cloud forests to tropical beaches, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, and our campus is nestled right in the heart of it.
This natural immersion supports:
Whether surfing, hiking, kayaking, or simply studying under a mango tree, students experience the therapeutic impact of nature every day.
1. The Culture Itself Is Therapeutic
Costa Rica has earned its reputation as one of the happiest, most peaceful countries in the world. The culture is built around connection, presence, and community - values that many students in high-pressure environments desperately need to reconnect with.
Here, students learn to:
- Slow down and be present
- Prioritize relationships and wellbeing
- See themselves through a strengths-based lens, not a diagnostic one
Costa Rica’s famous saying, “Pura Vida” (pure life), isn’t just a slogan. It’s a way of living that encourages thriving over just surviving.
2. Immersive Nature = Natural Regulation
From mountain cloud forests to tropical beaches, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, and our campus is nestled right in the heart of it.
This natural immersion supports:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Increased mindfulness and emotional regulation
- Greater connection to self and the world
Whether surfing, hiking, kayaking, or simply studying under a mango tree, students experience the therapeutic impact of nature every day.
3. A Safe, Accessible Location (Closer Than You Think)
Despite being abroad, Costa Rica is just a short flight from major U.S. cities. With direct flights from New York, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, and Los Angeles - and only a 25-minute drive from the airport to our campus - it’s more accessible than many stateside programs.
Families are often surprised by how easy it is to stay connected, with scheduled home visits every 8-9 weeks and regular communication throughout their enrollment.
Despite being abroad, Costa Rica is just a short flight from major U.S. cities. With direct flights from New York, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, and Los Angeles - and only a 25-minute drive from the airport to our campus - it’s more accessible than many stateside programs.
Families are often surprised by how easy it is to stay connected, with scheduled home visits every 8-9 weeks and regular communication throughout their enrollment.
4. Integrated Cultural Experiences Build Identity
Therapeutic growth isn’t just about introspection. It’s about seeing the world differently, and seeing yourself differently within it.
Through:
New Summit Academy students develop empathy, perspective-taking, and a stronger sense of identity.
5. It’s Not Just Therapy. It’s Transformation
In Costa Rica, therapeutic support doesn’t mean sitting in a therapist’s office five days a week.
It means:
Our model of Supportive Immersion means that students are constantly growing through daily experiences - from leadership roles and travel to music, academics, and sports - all in a culture that encourages them to be their authentic selves.
Costa Rica Isn’t a Detour. It’s a Direction.
When students feel overwhelmed, anxious, or burned out, they don’t need to be “sent away.” They need a pause, a reset, and a new environment that helps them reconnect with who they are. Costa Rica offers all of that and more.
Is your son ready for a fresh start in a place designed for growth?
Learn how New Summit Academy Costa Rica combines academic excellence, personal development, and the natural therapeutic power of this remarkable country.
Therapeutic growth isn’t just about introspection. It’s about seeing the world differently, and seeing yourself differently within it.
Through:
- Homestays with Costa Rican families
- Service projects in local communities
- Cross-cultural friendships and language immersion
New Summit Academy students develop empathy, perspective-taking, and a stronger sense of identity.
5. It’s Not Just Therapy. It’s Transformation
In Costa Rica, therapeutic support doesn’t mean sitting in a therapist’s office five days a week.
It means:
- Building a healthy lifestyle
- Practicing new skills in real time
- Working with mentors who truly know and care about each student
Our model of Supportive Immersion means that students are constantly growing through daily experiences - from leadership roles and travel to music, academics, and sports - all in a culture that encourages them to be their authentic selves.
Costa Rica Isn’t a Detour. It’s a Direction.
When students feel overwhelmed, anxious, or burned out, they don’t need to be “sent away.” They need a pause, a reset, and a new environment that helps them reconnect with who they are. Costa Rica offers all of that and more.
Is your son ready for a fresh start in a place designed for growth?
Learn how New Summit Academy Costa Rica combines academic excellence, personal development, and the natural therapeutic power of this remarkable country.
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Our music electives and art programs provide our students with a unique opportunity to explore their emotions, express themselves authentically, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
We recently had a visit from the wonderful Tracy Hopkins. After her visit, she left us with not only sweet memories but also heartwarming words we want to share with you:
We recently had a visit from the wonderful Tracy Hopkins. After her visit, she left us with not only sweet memories but also heartwarming words we want to share with you:
"In the middle of the Howler Studio at New Summit Academy Costa Rica, I found myself moved to tears. It was a profound moment, one where the heartstrings of empathy and understanding were delicately plucked by the soulful melody of a young man's song, penned from the depths of his own experiences." - Tracy
"As he sang, he shared of the quest for belonging, a yearning to illuminate his inner light amidst the shadows of uncertainty. It became clear to me that he, like so many others, was on a profound journey of self-discovery and connection, navigating the perplexity of human existence with courage and vulnerability." - Tracy
"Students seamlessly integrate into an environment that encourages introspection, fosters genuine connections, and nurtures personal growth through collective contribution." - Tracy