ESEG opens its doors to exchange students from the USA.

Between May 13th and 27th, the ESEG College, part of the Etapa Group, promoted the Global Honors Program Brazil 2025, a project in partnership with Roberts Wesleyan University (RWU), The initiative, based in New York (USA), and conducted by ESEG International, the internationalization department of our institution, aimed to promote cultural, professional, and academic exchange between Brazilian and American students.

It was two weeks of special programs that immersed the exchange students in Brazilian culture, with tours and activities that included the participation of ESEG students. Buddy Program, This provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and practice different languages. In addition to the program, the exchange students stayed in the homes of partner families, known as Host Families, Bringing a little bit of our daily lives into their reality.

The activities were quite varied and aimed to broaden the cultural repertoire among the participants, promoting our rich and diverse culture. The Americans had the opportunity to learn to dance samba and pagode, learn about capoeira, and sample our typical foods, such as rice, beans, cheese bread, coxinha (chicken croquette), feijoada (black bean stew), fruits, guaraná (a Brazilian soft drink), and, of course, our barbecue. Among the outings, the students were able to visit INCOR (Heart Institute), the Museum of the Portuguese Language, Cantareira Park, social projects, SESCs (Social Service of Commerce), Paulista Avenue, and enjoy a day at the beach in Peruíbe.

“It was an incredible experience to be able to immerse myself in the culture and interact with the people. My favorite part was living with the Brazilians, who are very welcoming and friendly. Everyone received us very well in their homes. I was very honored by all the generosity,” highlights Magdalene Ramich, an exchange student.  

During the program, several lectures, mini-courses, and classes were given, focusing on learning. The Americans had access to Portuguese language classes and lectures on technology, history, and public relations between Brazil and the USA, 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 have here.

“"It was a truly incredible two weeks, I loved the whole experience. Getting to know not only the..." buddies, but my host family "It was sensational, everyone was very welcoming and kind here in Brazil. The culture here is incredible, there's so much to learn, so much to experience. I think we made the most of these weeks and I hope to come back soon," exclaims Caleb Suckow, a participant in the program. 

Students at ESEG were able to have a timely experience practicing English and interacting with other cultures: “It was incredible for me! In those two weeks I was able to connect with people, develop my English and practice my speaking. I had never traveled abroad, so it was a great opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and come into contact with a new culture,” explains Matheus de Oliveira, a Computer Engineering student.

According to Vanessa Martins, manager of ESEG International, this year's edition was intense in terms of planning and execution to ensure everything was perfect, but also great for connecting with new people: “It's a total immersion experience in Brazilian culture. We welcomed North American students for a fifteen-day experience with academic, professional, and cultural activities every day. Many relationships, bonds, connections, and friendships were created, resulting in a period of many exchanges and much learning.”.

During their time in Brazil, the students from Roberts Wesleyan University immersed themselves in our culture and had enriching experiences for their personal and professional lives. For the students from ESEG, it was also a rich opportunity for cultural enrichment, without the costs of traveling abroad.

This year's edition of the Global Honors Program has come to an end, creating many memorable moments and opening doors for future editions. The program is yet another distinguishing feature that ESEG College offers our students, focusing on a global education.