Malí Weitzman

How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?

Studying abroad transformed my academic and professional career. For one, I switched my Spanish major to a Spanish and Portuguese major. While I was always passionate about traveling and international development, I now know after graduating I want to work in international education to facilitate these world-opening exchange experiences for other students. Through study abroad I can empower other young people to push for sustainable and empathetic development.

How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?

During my two study abroads I tried to put myself in safe yet uncomfortable situations frequently. For example, I played soccer (which I haven’t played since middle school) with a group of American and Spanish students. Another special experience for me was volunteering at an elementary school in their English classroom. On the side I also tutored two young girls in English. Instead of payment, I would accompany the mom on errands or taking the girls to the park to improve my language skills.

Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?

I can’t speak highly enough about the Summer in Brazil program. São Paulo is such a creative and dynamic city that feels so big it never ends. The program is set up to push students’ boundaries and think critically about Brazil’s history and social issues. I loved Sevilla, Spain just as much because Sevillanos are so proud of their city and excited to share their culture with foreigners. I fell in love with the city instantly for its warm weather, walk and bikeability, and lively student population.

What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?

I recommend pushing your comfort zone to make the most of your study abroad experience! Pick the location even if your friends aren’t going with you, think about a homestay to improve your language skills, and make an effort to befriend locals and people outside your program to expose yourself to different sides of your city.

Did your identity impact your study abroad experience?

As a Jewish woman, I did try to connect with the Jewish communities in São Paulo and Sevilla. In São Paulo I got connected with a few Jewish Brazilians that were involved in the São Paulo Orthodox Jewish community. In Sevilla I frequented the historically Jewish neighborhood and joined the reform Jewish community during high holidays in the city.

Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.

In São Paulo I lived in a shared apartment with two Brazilian girls and two American boys. The entire experience was cultural immersion, from learning how to use the laundry machine, that Brazilians take multiple showers a day, to trying my roommates feijoada. I loved our dynamic and am so grateful to my Brazilian host roommates for welcoming me into their apartment and bearing with me as my Portuguese improved from survival-level.