Ellie
Business Management with Marketing BSc (Hons)
University of São Paulo
Spending my summer studying abroad at the University of São Paulo (USP) in Brazil was one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences I have ever had. Living and studying in a different country gave me the opportunity to experience a new culture, meet people from around the world and learn so much both academically and personally. My time in Brazil was filled with incredible memories, new friendships and adventures that I will never forget.
One of the biggest highlights of my trip was spending a weekend in Rio de Janeiro. Visiting such an iconic city was an amazing experience, and I loved having the opportunity to explore some of its most famous landmarks. I visited Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, where I could enjoy the beautiful scenery and experience the lively atmosphere Rio is known for. Another highlight was visiting Sugarloaf Mountain, where the views across the city and coastline were incredible. Seeing Christ the Redeemer in person was also unforgettable, as it is such an iconic landmark and something I had always wanted to experience. I also visited Maracanã Stadium, which was particularly exciting as a football fan and gave me a glimpse into Brazil’s passion for the sport. Exploring Rio over the weekend was an incredible opportunity to discover more of Brazil and create memories with the people I shared the experience with.
During my time at USP, we also took part in several organised trips that helped us understand Brazilian culture, industries and everyday life. Visiting a coffee factory gave us an insight into Brazil’s important coffee industry, while our trip to a farm helped us learn more about agriculture and rural life. Attending a football game was another highlight, allowing us to experience the energy and enthusiasm of Brazilian football first-hand. These activities made learning much more engaging by connecting what we experienced in Brazil with what we studied in the classroom.
Receiving a bursary to support my summer abroad was also incredibly beneficial. It helped ease the financial pressure of travelling and living overseas, allowing me to focus on my studies while making the most of the opportunities available. Personally, it gave me greater freedom to explore Brazil and enjoy experiences I will remember for years. Academically, studying at USP introduced me to different perspectives and a new learning environment. Professionally, I developed valuable skills such as independence, adaptability and cultural awareness, which will benefit my future career in business and marketing.
Overall, my summer in Brazil was about so much more than studying. I had an amazing time exploring, meeting new people and stepping outside my comfort zone. The experience has inspired me to travel more, embrace new opportunities and continue discovering different cultures. I would highly recommend studying abroad to other Surrey students, as it is an incredible opportunity to learn, grow and make unforgettable memories.
*To find out more about the bursaries available, please visit the Funding page.
