Interview
Meet Marisa from Brazil
Name: Marisa Batista de Jesus
Home University: University of São Paulo, Brazil
Field of Study: Business and Administration
Favourite thing about Umeå: That everything works so well
Favourite Swedish word or custom: "Varsågod" It\'s nice and has a lot of meanings-
Studying at Umeå University
The Swedish system of study is different from the one in my home country. In Brazil we study 4 or 5 subjects simultaneously during one semester, so the courses are a mix of work intensive and easier topics. Here, as we just study one subject at a time, all of them are very study intensive all of the time. I always have a lot to read or write for tests, seminars and papers, it\'s sort of tiring. The good thing is that the teachers are always available to talk to, discuss with and to answer our questions. Also, the courses are interesting and well structured. When I came to Umeå I was thinking about just attending to the first part of the program, but I liked the structure and decided to stay for the second part as well. When I go back to Brazil , it will take one to one and a half years to conclude my bachelor in Accountancy. Reading a management course is a very good complement to my studies, as my background is based on number analysis.
Impression of Umeå
People in Umeå are very nice and very helpful. I learned that I need to ask for help when I want it, but once I ask I\'ll have any kind of help that I need. The city is also very nice. Coming from São Paolo I find it to be small and calm, but perfect for students. Everything in Umeå is close by, so you can get anywhere you want to go by bike or walking. I also like that us students live relatively close to each other, so we can easily meet and do things together. I\'ve found that things run very smoothly. I haven\'t had any greater problems, since most people speak English and it\'s been easy to get whatever I\'ve needed.
Favourite thing about my year in Umeå
The people! I met people from all over the world here, and this is the best thing about an international experience. We share ideas, have a lot of fun together and learn about each other\'s cultures. It has been truly enriching.
Advice for future exchange students
To always keep an open mind. Make a conscious effort to make contact with people, it will be worth the effort. And of course, being from tropical Brazil I have to say; don\'t be afraid of the weather. Sure, it\'s cold, but you\'ll survive! I am! I\'ve found Swedes to be a helpful people. You can always ask for whatever you need, and expect to get the help you\'ve asked for. I find this to be really amazing. In my opinion they are too shy, but friendly once you get to know them. It took me a while, but I\'ve gotten used to them, haha.
