ESEG College welcomes exchange students from the USA.

Between May 12th and 27th, the ESEG College, part of the Etapa Group, promoted the Global Honors Program Brazil 2026, a project in partnership with Roberts Wesleyan University (RWU), The initiative, based in New York (USA), and conducted by the ESEG International office, aimed to promote cultural, professional, and academic exchange between Brazilian and American students.

Multicultural experience program

During the two-week period, the exchange students took part in special programs that immersed them in Brazilian culture, with varied tours and activities that sought to broaden the cultural repertoire among the participants, promoting the rich and diverse Brazilian culture.

The Americans learned samba, experienced capoeira, tasted our typical foods, and visited tourist attractions in the city. Among the excursions they took, the students also visited important places such as INCOR (Heart Institute), Cantareira Park, CNN Brazil headquarters, SESC, Paulista Avenue, and even enjoyed a day at the beach in Bertioga-SP.

The project also involved ESEG students who were part of the project. Buddy Program, ...providing an opportunity for cultural exchange between Brazilians and Americans. Far beyond the program itself, the exchange students got a taste of our people's reality and were able to see how our daily lives function by staying in the homes of partner families. Host Families, who brought a little bit of our daily lives to them.

“This was my first international experience and it was definitely transformative. Meeting students from other continents and being able to see cultural differences firsthand is sensational, as well as being very important for changing my understanding of other cultures and enriching my knowledge,” explains Catarina Borges, a law student.  

Learning inside and outside the home

As part of the program, the American students had access to various lectures, mini-courses, and classes, all focused on learning. At ESEG College, they were able to learn more about the Portuguese language, Brazilian history, sustainability, cuisine, and even... Diplomacy with the representative of the American consulate., ...all to further enrich the students' learning repertoire. On weekends, each American had a unique experience with their... Host Family, giving them a taste of the family Saturdays and Sundays we enjoy here.

“"It was an incredible experience. I had the opportunity to connect with the culture, try new foods, visit fantastic places, and witness the daily routine of my family." Host Family. "Seeing how our cultures interact was something special for me, and I am very grateful to be able to participate in this program," highlights Miriam Labarr, an exchange student. 

According to Vanessa Martins, manager of ESEG International, the 2026 edition was a success thanks to the intense planning and execution of activities to ensure everything was perfect. “As in other editions, this year we had an immersive experience in Brazilian culture. We warmly welcomed the American students for a fifteen-day experience filled with activities. Many relationships, bonds, connections, and friendships were created, resulting in an unforgettable experience for everyone,” Vanessa proudly states.

Cultural immersion

While spending their days in Brazil, the students from Roberts Wesleyan University immersed themselves in our culture and experienced enriching moments for their personal and professional lives, having the chance to further strengthen their connection with our country with a final presentation on May 27th. For the students of ESEG, it was also a rich opportunity for cultural enrichment, gaining access to a new perspective on what a culture different from our own is like.

“My time in Brazil was incredible. The culture here is very different from the United States, but it’s fantastic. I made many friends, tried delicious food. I really enjoyed my time here and I plan to return someday to explore this wonderful country even more,” shares Liam O’Keefe, from Roberts Wesleyan University.

This year's edition of the Global Honors Program has come to an end with incredible moments that will remain in everyone's memory, also leaving the doors open for future editions. The program reinforces one of the distinguishing features that ESEG College offers our students: a focus on a global education.