Emory University
Spanish and Portuguese, Spanish and Linguistics – Graduation May 2024
Where did you study abroad?
São Paulo, Brazil
Why is / was studying abroad important to your undergraduate experience?
For my language studies, it was important to me to visit a country in which the primary language spoken was one of my studies. I wanted to fully emerge myself in the culture and language to solidify my knowledge from textbooks and apply them to the real world.
How did you select your study abroad program?
My university offers a summer program in Brazil every other summer and it was always a goal of mine to be able to participate in the program since Freshman year.
How did you grow during your study abroad experience?
My world quite literally expanded as I got to know a different country and live my studies in person. I’ve become more self-aware of how big the world actually is, and it has made me more curious about other cultures.
What was your favorite excursion as part of your study abroad experience?
My favorite excursion was visiting a camp that belongs to the Landless Workers Movement (or MST in Portuguese). It was quite an enlightening experience and I learned so much about the importance of the movement to not only Brazil, but South America as a whole.
What advice would you offer other AFF scholars who are interested in studying abroad?
If your schedule allows you to, please do it! I promise you will not regret it. Also, don’t let any financial worries keep you back. There are plenty of scholarship opportunities out there!