Student Spotlight: Toni Jackson in Brazil

What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge?

“One challenge I’ve experienced is adapting to the different foods available in Brazil. There are a lot of simple food items I miss like slurpees or Mac and cheese, that I didn’t realize wouldn’t be available here. I’ve overcome that challenge by trying new Brazilian foods that largely aren’t available in the US like pastels, coxinhas, and açaí. There are even a number of restaurants that I love and will miss when I go back to the U.S.”

What similarities and differences have you experienced between your host culture and your culture?

“One similarity I’ve noticed is Brazilians’ love for American pop culture and music. Every time I visit a restaurant or store, they’re playing a lot of American songs from the 2010s. Even the radio stations will play an American pop song and then a Brazilian song back-to-back. There are also a ton of unexpected U.S. shows Brazilians love, like Everybody Hates Chris or Wednesday. It’s really interesting how much culture has transmitted over 4,000 miles away. A difference I’ve experienced is the Brazilian attitudes and personalities. Before traveling, I heard that São Paulo was the most ‘unfriendly’ city in Brazil, but everyone, (including strangers), has been outwardly kind and open. Whenever someone notices that I’m American, they strike up conversations about our respective cultures.”

What are you looking forward to experiencing in your second month abroad?

“I’m looking forward to exploring Brazil more and seeing what culture is like outside of São Paulo! I’m taking a trip to Salvador, Bahia, which is the Blackest city outside of Africa, and I can’t wait to experience a city with a completely different pace compared to São Paulo. I’m also visiting Rio de Janeiro and I’m looking forward to seeing monuments like Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain. I finally feel settled here, and hope my next steps in the country are memorable.”