International Experience
Yale University
Summer English Course & Cultural Exchange Program
In 2013, during my high school years in Brazil, I had the unique opportunity to participate in a summer exchange program to study English at the renowned Yale University. This program, promoted by the Converse International School of Languages, aimed to enhance my language skills and provide a rich cultural exchange with students from all over the world.
During the summer, I stayed in one of Yale's historic dormitories, fully immersing myself in university life. In the first week, I participated in group activities to assess each participant's English level and was placed in the Advanced level. In the following weeks, I attended classes with other international students at the same level, where we practiced English through interactive activities and discussions focused on conversation and cultural exchange.
The Yale campus is a true architectural marvel. With its Gothic buildings and extensive green lawns, every corner of the university seemed like it came straight out of a movie. Walking through tree-lined avenues, feeling the history in every stone of the buildings, was an inspiring experience. Besides the historic buildings, Yale also had modern structures equipped with the latest educational technologies. This fusion of old and new created a unique and stimulating environment.
The cultural diversity in my class was one of the most enriching aspects of this experience. Sharing the classroom with students from different countries, such as France, Russia, Turkey, China, and Japan, was fascinating and inspiring. As a Brazilian student, I had the opportunity to present aspects of our culture. These cultural exchanges went beyond the classroom, occurring also during social and practical activities. Each interaction was a window to a new world, enriching my global perspective and fostering a collaborative and multicultural learning environment.
In addition to classes, I participated in workshops in music, arts, and other practical activities that provided a dynamic and engaging learning experience. In one art workshop, for example, I created a painting that I still cherish. I had the chance to participate in typical American school games and special university activities, creating a light and fun learning environment. We played sports together, especially soccer, on Yale's vast and well-maintained fields. One of my favorite memories was a soccer game we organized with students from various nationalities. The energy was contagious, and despite cultural differences, everyone united around their love for the sport.
This exchange experience not only improved my English skills but also broadened my cultural understanding and provided unforgettable memories. Studying at Yale University during a summer course was a transformative experience that deeply enriched my academic and personal development. The immersion in an international environment, the interaction with peers from diverse cultures, and experiencing Yale's rich academic tradition offered me a new perspective on the world and my own potential. Every challenge overcome and every new friendship formed helped shape a more confident, adaptable, and culturally aware version of myself. This experience left an indelible mark on my journey, inspiring me to continuously seek learning and value cultural differences as essential elements for personal and professional growth.
Summer Exchange Challenges
Yale University
Participating in the summer exchange at Yale University in 2013 was a challenging and rewarding experience. During my high school years in Brazil, this unique opportunity provided significant personal growth. Living alone in a room on the top floor of the dormitory brought a series of challenges that, when overcome, taught me a lot about independence and adaptation.
At first, navigating the vast and expansive Yale campus was intimidating. With its imposing Gothic buildings and lush gardens, finding my classes and activities was a real challenge. However, each day I became more confident, and my ability to navigate and find the right locations improved significantly. I remember once getting lost while looking for my classroom, but I ended up meeting a group of students who helped me and became my friends.
Additionally, the challenge of having lunch and breakfast in the university cafeteria was significant. The variety of food options and the dynamics of finding a place to sit among so many students were new to me. Often, besides the cafeteria options, I had the opportunity to prepare my own food, which was both challenging and gratifying. Quickly, I got used to it and began to enjoy the routine, taking the opportunity to practice English by talking with other students during meals.
Exploring the city of New Haven on my own was also an exciting challenge. Walking around a new city, discovering shops, bookstores, and restaurants, and interacting with the locals broadened my worldview and helped me further develop my English skills. Every corner held a new discovery, from charming shops to cozy bookstores.
The challenges were not limited to logistics and navigation. Living with students from different cultures and nationalities brought communication and cultural understanding challenges. Sharing the classroom with students from France, Russia, Turkey, China, and Japan was fascinating and inspiring. As a Brazilian student, I had the opportunity to present aspects of our culture and learn about my colleagues' traditions and customs. These cultural exchanges went beyond the classroom, occurring also during social and practical activities. Each interaction was a window to a new world, enriching my global perspective and fostering a collaborative and multicultural learning environment.
Overcoming all these challenges was possible thanks to my English skills and willingness to learn and adapt. Talking with other exchange students and university students taking summer courses helped me overcome language and cultural barriers. Exploring the city and the campus, although challenging, was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Journey to Innovation: A Tour of Harvard and MIT
During the summer English program at Yale, I had the opportunity to take a weekend trip from New Haven to Boston. Our first stop was the MIT campus, where we were welcomed by the vibrant atmosphere. I saw students sitting on the grass, chatting, and relaxing. We strolled in front of the MIT institute, where I took a photo with the impressive Alchemist sculpture. After exploring the main buildings of MIT, we headed to Harvard, where we had more time to extensively tour the campus.
The Harvard campus, with its historic architecture and stunning landscapes, provided us with an inspiring experience. We walked through the iconic corridors and absorbed the rich history of the university. After exploring the campuses of MIT and Harvard, we dedicated the rest of the day to discovering the city of Boston. We walked through the historic center, admiring the entrance to the Boston Bruins stadium. In downtown Boston, we enjoyed a variety of places to eat and explore antique shops. The walk along the Boston Harbor was particularly pleasant. At night, we returned to New Haven, marked by the experience of visiting two of the most prestigious universities in the world.
The next day, we headed north from Boston for a surprise visit to Six Flags New England. As a fan of Roller Coaster Tycoon, a game I loved during my childhood, visiting one of the parks featured in the game was surreal. The first thing I did upon arrival was buy a Flash Pass to make the most of the park. I spent the day exploring all the roller coasters, with Bizarro being my favorite, which I rode more than 10 times. The fun shared with my colleagues made the day even more special, undoubtedly my favorite day of the entire trip.
This weekend trip was an unforgettable experience, combining the academic charm of Harvard and MIT with the adrenaline and fun of Six Flags. It not only broadened my cultural and academic horizons but also provided moments of pure joy and adventure.