Why did you choose this program?
It offered a great affordable way to see Rio and get in touch with the locals and their free way of living. It also provided a way to learn capoeira from an inspiring mestre and help them to keep the good axè going!
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
They show you the way to your project, and spend a period of time with you explaining what's going on, as well as what's needed. After that you just have to be at your project as scheduled and work toward small goals making things better.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
If you want to really get into training capoeira at the project, get your cardio up before. Be aware at all times what's going on around you when your venturing off alone, and keep to the program - they are amazing people and it's an beautiful art.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
In the sports development soccer and capoeira projects your schedule will be set in the evenings Monday to Thursday. You have plenty of free time before the project starts and on weekends to go out or explore
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it and/or how did your views on the issue change?
Language and communication, as I was very slow learning Portuguese. While I was there, I learned enough to get me around when traveling, and learned that kindness is the language of the world. A lot of people speak fluent English in Brazil and are always keen on helping