Josie Halporn
ULG
What language did you study and why?
I studied Portuguese in São Paulo because I wanted to experience language immersion specifically in Brazilian Portuguese.
What program did you attend and why did you choose it?
I attended Tulane’s Summer in Brazil program. Believe it or not, there aren’t many study abroad programs in Brazil! I chose this one because it focused on contemporary social issues in the country as well as grammar practice.
Describe your experience doing summer language study. Was it tricky? How do you think your language skills improved?
As I flew home from Brazil, I talked to the passenger next to me for several hours in Portuguese, and this moment was when I truly realized how far I’d come in my language abilities. However, I may have improved my speaking more in Brazil if I had used less English with my American roommates. My writing and reading are also much improved. In my previous Portuguese courses at Northwestern, I always felt like I had to look up the English translations for every other word in class readings. I don’t feel that way anymore! I can also now write advanced phrases like “If I was…I would…,” using conditional and subjunctive tenses with ease. Though my listening comprehension improved significantly, I still want to put more effort into this area. When my Brazilian roommates spoke really fast to each other or me, I was at a complete loss for the meaning. It is also still difficult for me to understand certain regional accents, like the Carioca or the Nordestina.
Did intensive summer language study change or solidify any of your future goals? If so, how?
After completing the program, I am even more motivated to return to Northwestern and finish off the Portuguese minor. I know that I am capable of achieving success in classes of any subject matter taught fully in a different language. I also seriously want to return to Brazil for a more extended period of time.
Do you have any tips or advice for students similar to you that are interested in pursing intensive language study?
Lean into the independence you build while abroad. It will serve you well for the rest of your life!