Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

Notes from Abroad: Thabiso in Brazil

Iguazu Falls Visiting the Iguazu Falls (waterfalls of the Iguazu River on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Paraná)
June 11, 2024
Thabiso Moreti '25

Thabiso Moreti '25, an economics major with a minor in music, studied abroad this past spring semester in São Paulo, Brazil.

My study abroad experience in Brazil has truly been an unforgettable journey of cultural and personal growth.  

Learning Portuguese has been both challenging and rewarding, with many hurdles, but the warmth and friendliness of Brazilians made the process easier. The patience and encouragement that they exercise transformed what was initially a daunting task into an enjoyable and immersive adventure. 

Living in São Paulo for the past few months has been an invigorating experience. It is a vibrant city blessed with a variety of cultures, cuisines, and activities, offering something new to discover every day. Whether it was visiting their historic museums, enjoying the nightlife, or savoring its rich and diverse cuisine, there was rarely a dull moment.  

One of the highlights of my stay has been the ease of travel within Brazil. This has allowed me to visit attractions such as Rio de Janeiro, where I was able to visit Christ the Redeemer, one of the 7 Wonders of the World, and the Iguazu Falls, the largest waterfall system in South America. Both places, and others too, have left lasting impressions on me, enriching my understanding and appreciation of the country’s natural wonders. 

I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have lived and learned in such a dynamic and welcoming country. The experiences and memories I have made will stay with me forever, and I am hopeful that I can return to Brazil in the future to further explore as well as reconnect with the wonderful people and places I have come to love. 

Christ the Redeemer