J-Term Diaries: Brittany Pace

Yesterday was our day of reflection from the trip.  We watched the movie “the Mission,” which centers on an Indian tribe in the area which we were staying and their difficulties they faced during the colonial period.  Then, the class reflected as a class on all different aspects of our trip.  Specifically, we thought about ways in which we can carry on the experience that we had and continue to help the shade and fresh water project and the people associated with it.  Many of us are extremely interesting to help continue to support such a wonderful cause.  I also have a sincere desire to return to Brazil sometime in the near future.  Nova Almedia was such a peaceful beachtown full of wonderful people and Rio de Janeiro was without a doubt in the top ten most beautiful cities in the world!

We also handed in our reflection essays which was the final component of our grade, so now we are finished with the course.  In conclusion to my blog for 2007, here is part of my reflection:

So what exactly did I gain from spending J-term in Brazil?  It would take many hours and many more pages of writing, but here are a few of the most significant memories.  The service learning aspect of this course showed me that there are so many things to learn outside of the classroom.  One can gain insight in such different ways through this type of courses.  Meeting and interacting with such wonderful kids showed me that a language barrier is not as hard to conquer as I had previously believed.  The kids also showed me that they are excepting of all.  Race can define an area, but it does not have to and the Brazilian culture is an amazing example of this.  Seeing the results on the appearance of the camp after the ditch was completed, the dorm was painted, and the “Amazon” as I called it was cleared was extremely rewarding.  Experiencing the culture in both the small town of Nova Almedia and the large city of Rio de Janeiro was very interesting and insightful.  Gaining the friendship of twenty three other students is always fun and having these friendships will help me to get more involved on campus in different groups that I have learned about while in Brazil.  From the crazy YA BRAZIL! song, to the unforgettable moments with the kids to the sights of Rio, this trip has created countless, long lasting memories!

I hope that everyone enjoyed hearing about Brazil.  It was difficult due to the circumstances with the internet in Brazil, but I enjoyed sharing some of the experiences that our class had during J-Term 2007! 

Obrigada, Ciao!  ~BP

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