BRAZIL

Cultural Diferences

By Fernanda Dias de Andrade

There are some things and customs that surprised me when I arrived here in the United States. The first thing was the food, because it was the main thing I missed about Brazil. Brazilian meals have rice and beans almost every day and it is easily found in all restaurants across the country. But here, especially in Olympia, Washington, there are many different types of food like Mexican, Guatemalan, Middle Eastern and Indian among others. Even so, it is very hard to find “Real Food” like we usually say in Brazil referring to rice and beans. The second main difference is that warm and hot water from the tap is very common here and it can be found in all houses and establishments. In Brazil, this is something that is not very common or necessary due to the constant hot weather. But even so, it can be found in wealthier people's homes. Last but not least, I was really surprised about the traffic here. It is organized and people clearly respect traffic laws, at least most of them. This could be due to the traffic laws being enforced very strictly. On the other hand, in Brazil this enforcement is missing and as a result most people break the traffic laws. After living here for a few months all these differences are becoming more normal for me. I’m curious what I will think when I go back to Brazil to visit.

Performing A Dream

By Eder Oliveira

My name is Eder. I'm 36 years old. I was born in the state of Sao Paulo in Brazil. I've always been a fan of North American movies and culture and I fulfilled my dream of visiting the USA 8 months ago. I have a degree in mathematics/physics and I intend to teach here in the USA in the future. I visited 6 states (California, Texas, New York, Oregon, Arizona and Washington). I still intend to know many things and witness a commemorative date that I always wanted to see, which is the 4th of July. I hope to have a fantastic experience here and to achieve my personal and professional goals.

Arrival And Expectations

By Debora Sprenger Zanon

I have studied English since I was a child. So I can say that this is a big challenge for me. I realize that for some people, learning English is natural and easy for them, but not for me. I worked in two big companies in Sweden and always talked to people from different countries where English is not their main language. It was easy; I could say whatever I wanted and understand what they were saying. And then I came here, to a country where almost everybody speaks English from birth. Wow, it has been a big challenge for me! I'm an extroverted person, and I notice that sometimes I am introverted, shy because I don’t understand what someone is asking me, and I am just answering yes. I am afraid of signing contracts or making big deals. I am also afraid of teaching my kids because they don't speak English either. I miss my family, my friends, my home. Time has passed, and now I see how much work we have here; we need to learn a new language, a new culture, and we have so many challenges. Spring comes, and I can see how beautiful this place is and make some friends. I realize that little by little things will settle down, and life will go on. I don't know until when, but I will enjoy this journey.