Berkley Center

With the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics approaching, it is an interesting time to be in Rio de Janeiro, the city that will host both events. I chose to study abroad in Brazil because I wanted to participate in an intensive Portuguese-language program. I have always been interested in languages, and as an economics major I had learned about Brazil’s booming economy and potential as a future world power. Before arriving in Rio, I read many articles about Brazil’s rapidly growing industries and the steps the government is taking to eradicate the violence and poverty that plague Brazil’s favelas, or slums.

Since I have been here, however, my preconceptions of Brazil have changed greatly. Despite its booming economy, Brazil is still considered a developing country. I have talked to many Brazilians about the role that they believe their country will play in the world’s economy in future decades. What I have learned is that at the same time as Brazil’s economy is growing, the gap between the rich and poor is widening. The economy is growing for wealthy Brazilians and international entrepreneurs who have the resources to invest in new industries. The millions of impoverished Brazilians are not benefiting from this economic growth, and as a result the disparity between the rich and poor is expanding.

My preconceptions about Brazil have been proved wrong in my first two months here, and I still have three more months of learning ahead of me. Participating in the Berkley Center’s Junior Year Abroad Network will allow me to compile my thoughts and form conclusions about my experiences in Rio de Janeiro, while hopefully offering others insight into the complex yet fascinating religious and cultural aspects of Brazil.