About ICDS / STAFF

Dr Nowalski holds a Ph.D. in Labor Issues and Social Security from The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) as well as a Masters degree in Social Planning in Developing Countries and a Masters degree in Industrial Relations, both from LSE. He is also a consultant for international organizations such as, the International Labor Organization ILO, United Nations Development Program UNDP, Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank. Dr. Nowalski oversees all international academic programs with the cooperation of the program academic coordinators.


Bernardita has worked since the year 2000 as the programs administrator. She received her MBA from the University of South Alabama. During her time in the United States, she worked extensively with international students and she loves to meet and work with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Before joining ICDS, she worked at CIDH and at Citibank, Costa Rica. Bernardita oversees the planning and development of our study abroad programs to ensure that our students’ academic and personal experiences in Costa Rica are the best possible.


Danielle is a young outgoing Costa Rican and a senior student at the University of Costa Rica majoring in Business and Economics. She assists in the general coordination of our study abroad programs, and in particular, facilitates the communication between participating students and ICDS' administrative staff and faculty. She is always available for students during their process of adjustment while living in Costa Rica, to minimize the cultural shock. Even before students arrive, she introduces herself by email.


Mónica is a professional psychologist and counselor who collaborates with ICDS in the process of integration of students to ULatina's student life, as well as provides support during student’s adaptation to the new culture, the family, and the community through social and cultural activities particularly designed for this purpose. For further support to minimize culture shock and maximize cultural immersion, ICDS’ Student Welfare Coordinator organizes periodic experience-sharing meetings and private counseling sessions, when requested by individual students.


Matt is in his final year of undergrad at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. He will be graduating with a dual BA in Spanish and International Affairs. He is currently interning as ICDS´ Admissions Coordinator and International Liaison and helps to guide students through the applications process and works with them while they are in San José.


Natalia graduated from the University of Costa Rica with a BA in English with an emphasis in Literature and is now pursuing a MA in English Literature. She has been collaborating with ICDS as an administrative assistant and deals with anything student-related. She is also an avid reader, a music enthusiast, and our very own vegetarian who makes sure that students who follow this diet have no problems whatsoever while they experience life in Costa Rica!