My passion for Portuguese began when I was 16 years old and first heard the song “Você Partiu Meu Coração.” There was something about the rhythm, the lyrics, and the emotion in the music that immediately drew me in. From that moment on, I was hooked. I began learning the language through music, immersing myself in Brazilian songs and practicing with Duolingo.
When I found out that the University of Georgia (UGA) offered Portuguese courses, I jumped at the chance to enroll. I loved all my professors—they were passionate, engaging, and made the learning process incredibly enjoyable. As I progressed, the idea of studying abroad in Brazil became more appealing. When the opportunity finally came, I didn't hesitate. I was going to Brazil!
Preparing for a Unique Study Abroad Experience
The program I chose was unlike any other study abroad program I had heard of. It wasn’t just about visiting a new country; it required some level of Portuguese proficiency. Before being accepted, I had to take a language exam to demonstrate my skills, and I scored at the intermediate level. This was a big deal for me and marked a pivotal moment in my Portuguese learning journey.
The city I would be calling home was Salvador, Bahia. Before this, I hadn’t heard much about Salvador, as most people tend to talk about Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo. Located in northern Brazil, Salvador is known for its vibrant African culture and rich history, which I would soon come to love.
Living with a Host Family in Salvador, Bahia
One of the most transformative parts of my experience was living with a host family. My host mom, Sânia, was a warm, nurturing, and hilarious Brazilian woman who quickly made me feel at home. Even now, I miss her deeply. She taught me so much about life in Brazil and always welcomed me with open arms. Sânia will forever hold a special place in my heart.
I also had a host sister, Lorena, who was 17 at the time but possessed a maturity far beyond her years. She kept me up to date with all the trends, helping me navigate the cultural nuances of Brazil. Living with them provided an authentic view of daily life in Salvador and deepened my understanding of Brazilian culture beyond what I could have learned in the classroom.
Learning About Culture and Language Firsthand
I arrived in Brazil with countless questions about the culture: What is considered rude? What rivalries exist within the country? How do people interact with each other? The program not only answered these questions but also helped me discover so much more. One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of paying attention to my surroundings.
Our instructors encouraged us to take note of local words, sayings, and interactions. We were tasked with writing blog posts about our observations, which pushed me to immerse myself further into the culture. I became more curious, asking questions and listening intently to the conversations around me. This practice became a habit, one I now carry with me whenever I travel abroad.
The Flavors of Brazil: A Culinary Adventure
I still miss the food in Brazil so much! My host mom cooked for me every day, introducing me to a variety of fruits and traditional dishes. Each meal was an experience of its own, and I quickly developed a deep love for Brazilian cuisine. One of my absolute favorites was coxinha—a crispy, savory, chicken-filled snack that I couldn’t get enough of. Every bite was pure joy!
Another food obsession of mine during my time in Salvador was açaí. There was a local spot called Graçaí, located in a town called Graça, where I would go to get my açaí fix. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted back in the U.S.—rich, smooth, and topped with fresh fruits and granola. I was practically a regular there!
I also had the chance to try authentic caipirinhas, Brazil's national cocktail. The combination of cachaça, fresh lime, sugar, and ice was the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. I’ve tried recreating caipirinhas since coming back to the U.S., but I can never quite get the recipe just right. It’s one of those things that I guess just tastes better in Brazil.
Reflections on an Unforgettable Experience
Living in Salvador, Bahia, and studying Portuguese in a city with such a rich cultural history was a life-changing experience. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the diverse and vibrant cultures within Brazil. More than just improving my language skills, it opened my eyes to new ways of life and perspectives.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to study abroad and to have been a part of a program that truly pushed me to engage with the local culture. My host family, especially Sânia and Lorena, played a significant role in making Salvador feel like home. They taught me the true meaning of Brazilian warmth and hospitality.
This experience solidified my love for the Portuguese language, Brazilian culture, and of course, the incredible food. It shaped not just my understanding of Brazil, but also my approach to learning and exploring new places. Now, whenever I travel, I make it a point to pay attention, ask questions, and take note of what people say. It’s a habit that continues to enrich my experiences abroad.
Studying in Brazil was more than just an academic endeavor; it was a journey of self-discovery, cultural appreciation, and culinary delight. And to think it all started with a song that captured my heart.
