Brazil

Each student has a unique and individual experience on their Experiment program. The following essay is a single glimpse into a program from one student's perspective.

Karla Menendez -- The Rhythm of Bahia--Dance, Music, and Capoeira (BRSD)

How ever you may visualize your ideal paradise, I assure you that you will find it in the beautiful country that I visited this summer, Brazil. The day to depart to Brazil was here, and I felt a mix of emotions from nervous to anxious I knew that the wait was finally over. I arrived at the place where we were told to meet in Miami’s International Airport. Where I met both groups and a wonderful person, my leader, Alewa Cooper. Alewa made sure we were ready to go and answered all questions; she always started a conversation and played different games with us to loosen some of the tension that you always feel when you meet new people! By the time we got to the airport in Brazil I was close enough with everyone, it was a good start!

"Futebol" that is soccer! When we arrived we noticed the streets were empty, and that was not expected! Soon, we found out that the reason was "The World Cup" words cannot describe the passion and drive that Brazilians feel for soccer. When the game was over, we were on our way to see the world famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. On our way there, we realized that the country seemed to have mandatory uniforms, but those where the soccer team jerseys that the whole city seemed to wear for the special occasion; they celebrated their victory in the streets with fireworks, music, and good food which is the perfect Brazil vibe! When we all stood together on the highest peak in Rio do Janeiro it hit us, we were in Brazil. Miles away from home, and about to embark in a life changing experience, that would last five weeks.

Orientation was held in Rio do Janeiro. Where we were introduced to many kids our age. The groups always made a strong effort to communicate and learn from everyone we met. This was perfect to strengthen our Portuguese and start to feel more comfortable communicating before homestay.

Soon we separated from the other group and we arrived in Salvador, Bahia. This city was the perfect image of Brazil’s culture. We did many things thanks to our leader Paulin, who knew the best places to visit and kept us on a busy schedule. One of the most exciting activities was Capoeira class. During the first class, we learned the basics and received our nicknames. We fell in love with Brazil’s favorite martial arts Capoeira and decided that it was necessary to have a second class. Also, we enjoyed learning about Salvador’s religion Cadomble. It was interesting to hear the legends of their gods which they call Orixas and have great respect fo, and that lead us to learn the Afro-Brazilian dance that is dedicated to their gods. Overall, Salvador was the perfect city to learn and get involved with Brazil’s culture.

The moment we all feared was here, homestay! It didn’t take long to realize that everything about homestay was good and would be one of the parts we would enjoy the most! We all had wonderful families; mine was unforgettable in many ways. My sisters made sure I felt comfortable around them and introduced me to all their friends who were the other host siblings. Then came the community project, which consisted of building a school for the kids who where in the town. I would lie if I said it was easy work but we all agreed that it was "hard work for a good cause!" Everyone recognized the effort put in to it and that made us feel complete. When we had time to spend with our families, we would all get together and go to places like waterfalls or natural waterslides. Lencois was surrounded by beautiful places that made it hard for us to leave. The moment we had to depart from home stay was the hardest of them all, we knew we were leaving great people behind who welcomed us with open arms and made those nine days amazing for the group!

Brazil gave me a different perspective about a lot of things and changed me in many ways! The way that the country was shown to me is what made this experience unforgettable and special to me. I met different people, who I grew close to and learned many things from. This summer I can say I had the best time of my life!