During my freshman year, I took the Fast Portuguese course, which I highly enjoyed. After completing just one semester, I was able to navigate São Paulo’s busy streets and engage with locals in meaningful conversations. As a fluent Spanish speaker, I found the program brilliantly builds on existing language knowledge, making Portuguese accessible from the very first day.

When I traveled to Jericoacoara, I used my classroom vocabulary when chatting with local artisans about their crafts. I remember clearly understanding a craftsman’s explanation of his family’s traditions without struggling for translation.

In the past year, I have been to Brazil three times and watched my language skills grow through continued study in the Portuguese program. What began as essential communication has evolved into the ability to discuss current events and cultural nuances with Brazilians. The program transformed what could have been typical tourist experiences into genuine connections that keep drawing me back to Brazil year after year.