Abdullah, Law
My name is Abdullah, a penultimate-year Law student at the University of Surrey, and I had
the incredible opportunity to study abroad at FEA USP in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo. The summer school
focused on Brazil’s dynamic economy, especially its thriving agribusiness sector. This experience helped
me understand the local economy, accounting practices, and the unique challenges and opportunities of
doing business in Brazil. During my time there, I had the chance to deliver a presentation on the
agribusiness industry, examining regional inequality between the north and south of Brazil and
comparing it to the UK.
One of the important reasons I would recommend this program to Surrey students is the invaluable
academic experience it provides. Learning about the Brazilian agribusiness sector through visits to coffee
cooperatives like Cooxupé and sugarcane producers like São Martinho was very informative. Being in
Ribeirão Preto, a city with a strong link to agribusiness, allowed me to see firsthand how the industry
operates. Talking to local professionals in the business and the insights gained from the visits allowed
me to develop a better understanding of regional economic practices, something I didn’t know much
about before. Additionally, I enjoyed the picturesque views of the city, with its tall buildings displaying
its vibrant culture.
During our free time, we took a weekend trip to Rio de Janeiro, where I had the opportunity to bond
with peers while visiting iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. This
experience created unforgettable memories that made my time in Brazil even more special.
The financial support I received from the Forever Surrey Abroad Award, along with other grants, was
essential for my participation in the program. This funding made my experience incredibly beneficial and
stress-free by helping me cover both my flight and program fees. This allowed me to make most of my
time in Brazil without any financial worries.
Overall, my 31 days at FEA USP were an incredible experience that enhanced my academic journey and
personal growth. The insights I gained will be invaluable for my future legal career, particularly in areas
related to business. Spending a month in the beautiful country of Brazil is a fantastic opportunity and I
would highly recommend this summer programme to Surrey students seeking a unique chance to
expand their knowledge and immerse themselves in a vibrant culture. The experiences and connections
made will last a lifetime.
