Cara Caruso '24

Cara Caruso '24 majors in Business and has a minor in Biology. She studied at FAAP - Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado, São Paulo, Brazil during the spring semester of 2023.

What made you choose the location you studied at? How did you pick your program?
When I was deciding where to study, Brazil was not my first choice. I was a bit nervous about going there. But it turned out to be one of the best things that could have ever happened to me, and I'm extremely grateful. I picked Brazil because the culture seemed interesting, and I wanted to experience something different. The program I chose seemed like a good fit for what I wanted to learn

How were the classes there different from the classes here?
Classes in Brazil were more relaxed compared to what I was used to. Teachers were often late, and there was more talking and less strict schedules. They also allowed more absences and lateness.

What was your favorite place you visited during your time abroad? [Please provide us with a picture of this place, if you can]
My favorite places in Brazil were Florianopolis and Foz de Iguazu. They were both extremely beautiful and memorable. From waterfalls to peaceful beaches, both were pure bliss.

What is your favorite word or phrase that you picked up in the language of your study abroad location?
One phrase I loved using in Brazil was "Tudo Bom," which means "everything's good." It was both the question and answer when greeting someone.

Did you cross off anything from your bucket list?
During my time in Brazil, I got to check things off my bucket list like going to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and seeing the Cristo Redentor.

What is the most interesting thing you learned about the culture you were part of?
One thing I learned about Brazilian culture is how passionate people are about things they love. From people to sports teams, Brazilians show their love with everything in them.

What is the most interesting thing you learned about yourself?
Being in Brazil showed me that I'm more independent than I thought. I had to handle situations that made me uneasy and adapt to new challenges. It took courage to do things like hiking through the jungle and finding my way on unfamiliar roads. It was a constant test of determination and thinking fast on my feet.

What was the most common thing people there asked you about?
When I was in Brazil, people would sometimes ask me if I was afraid to go to school in America. At first, I was surprised by this question because I didn't see a reason to be scared. But then I realized they were probably concerned about the issue of gun violence, which is less common in other countries. I had to explain to them that unfortunately, growing up with the threat of gun violence is something many Americans become accustomed to, which is a sad reality.

Did you face any reverse culture shock after returning home?
When I came back home, it took me a bit to get used to speaking English again and thinking in English instead of Portuguese, however, I don't think I experienced any severe reverse culture shock.

What advice would you give to anyone studying abroad? Studying at the location you chose?
For anyone thinking about studying abroad, I'd say go for it! Be open to new experiences, and don't be afraid to try something different. Even if it's not your first choice, it could turn out to be an amazing adventure.