Erika’s Journals

September 2, 2024

If You Never Go, You Will Never Know

Oi from Brazil!

It’s amazing to think I’ve already been here for over a month. Every day in Brazil feels like an adventure, full of new experiences. Even though there have been challenges, they’ve only made this journey more rewarding. I’ve met incredible people and made memories that I’ll keep forever. Living here has shown me the beauty of stepping out of my comfort zone. The kindness of my host family and new friends has been inspiring, and it’s taught me that taking chances can lead to wonderful things. This experience is a reminder to embrace every moment and appreciate the amazing world around us. I can’t even imagine where I’d be right now if I hadn’t convinced my mom to take me to the information session about the exchange program. That one choice changed everything for me. I’m so thankful I took that step and embraced this opportunity.

The journey to Brazil was far from easy, but everything eventually fell into place. My original flight was supposed to arrive on July 24th, but when I landed for my connecting flight, the plane had already left! I thought I could quickly book another flight, but the next one to São Paulo was not until three days later. So, I booked a direct flight to São Paulo on July 27th. Although this was quite stressful, I believe everything happens for a reason. On my first flight, I met some Brazilians sitting next to me, and one of the women had done an exchange from Brazil to Denmark over ten years ago. We chatted the whole way, and I received some valuable advice from her.

Upon arrival, I faced a new challenge (navigating the airport). I followed the crowd to baggage claim, only to find that my luggage was missing. It was frustrating, but I stayed calm and filed a claim. They informed me that my luggage was still in Miami and would hopefully arrive at my host family's house in about two weeks. Although living without my luggage was tough, it taught me adaptability, and it eventually showed up.

My first day in Brazil was amazing. Despite my nerves, everyone welcomed me warmly. My host brother greeted me with a welcome sign, and my host sister’s friends were there to meet me. I unpacked what little I had (thanks to the lost luggage) and spent time with my host sister and her friends. We made brigadeiro, a Brazilian sweet, and had a great time chatting. Later that night, my host family took me to a children’s birthday party, and the food was fantastic! My favorite dish was coxinha, which is a delicious breaded dough filled with shredded chicken. I tried so many different foods just on my first night. At the birthday party, there was this incredibly kind lady who made a big impression on me. When she found out I was from another country, she couldn’t stop asking how I was enjoying Brazil. Her genuine interest and warmth made me feel so welcome. By the end of the party, she gave me a big hug and wished me all the best. Her kindness made me realize that everything was going to be just fine, and I knew right then that I was going to love my time here. It was a small gesture, but it made a huge difference and helped me feel at home.

The first week in Brazil was relaxing as I didn’t have school yet. My host family showed me around the city. I went to the beach to play volleyball with my host dad and brother, and it was absolutely stunning. I still can't believe I live just a ten-minute walk from the beach! During that week, I tried various local dishes like pão de queijo, brigadeiro, and BBQ. The food here is definitely one of my favorite parts of the experience. 

During my second week in Brazil, I started school and it was amazing. The people have been so welcoming, and I’ve made many new friends. The school system here is quite different from the United States, and I love it! We start at 7:10 in the morning, and even though it's very early, we finish by noon, leaving the whole afternoon to spend with friends. My friends and I often go to the mall, which is just a five-minute walk from school…. It’s so convenient! I love how everyone walks everywhere in Santos, unlike in Georgia where walking anywhere is rare. Another difference is that the teachers come to our classrooms instead of us moving between classes, and we get to be with the same friends all day. The teachers are also very friendly, we call them by their first names and interact with them in a more casual manner, which I’m still getting used to. I really like my school friends. They’re awesome, and we always make plans together. A few weeks ago, one of my friends hosted a barbecue, and it was so much fun. We ate, danced, and sang all day. I love the welcoming vibe of the Brazilian people, even though my Portuguese isn’t great, I truly feel like part of their group.

The language has been the most challenging part for me. Despite having a basic foundation, I mostly practiced with people speaking slowly. Although it's been tough, my friends have been incredibly helpful. They always help with translations, and I’m grateful for their support. I know it will be so hard to say goodbye when June comes around.

My birthday in Brazil was absolutely amazing. I started the day early with my host sister and cousin in the center of Santos, which is so beautiful. We skated at a rink by the beach and then walked around, visiting the most famous statue in Santos. Afterward, we returned home to watch movies and enjoy lunch, where they sang "Happy Birthday" to me in Portuguese. The song is so long and confusing, but I’m slowly learning it! In the evening, my friends Nico and Eduardo picked me up and took me to try açaí for the first time. It was the best thing I’ve ever tasted…I loaded it with toppings, and it was so good. Later, they surprised me with a cake and sang "Happy Birthday" in English. Overall, my birthday in Brazil has been the best one yet, and I’m so glad to have spent it with loved ones.

Inbound orientation was a blast! Meeting people from all over the world was mind-blowing. There were so many different cultures and personalities, and even though we had various customs and manners, everyone was so accepting. I was surprised by how extroverted everyone was, I thought I was outgoing until I met them. We danced, sang, and many even jumped into the hotel pool. At orientation, I found out about all the trips, and I’m excited to be booked for the 29-day coast trip. I can’t wait to write about that adventure! 

I’m excited to see what the rest of my time in Brazil has in store and i can't wait to write about my next adventures.

Adeus por agora! (Bye for now)