My Experience in New Orleans

            On 29^th April, 2013 I did something that changed my life. I registered for a program called "Science Without Borders". It is a program in which you can study in another country in your university major. You can also learn about the language of the country. After some steps such as many documents to send and tests to take, I was chosen to participate in the program. I was chosen to study in New Orleans in Dillard University. I arrived in New Orleans on August 17. I have lived for almost 6 months.

            Before this program, I always lived in a small town called Sao Jeronimo in the state of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. I worked in Sao Jeronimo and studied in another city called Porto Alegre. I was very busy and I did not have enough time to do other things. Although I was busy and tired, I loved my job and I was happy to study in a good university in my favorite major. I lived with my parents and I had many cats and dogs.

            My first days in New Orleans was very difficult to me because I was very afraid of this new experience. I think I had this reaction because I really changed my life! I left my job that I worked for almost 4 years, I was far away from my parents and friends and I needed to learn a new language. All of those things contributed to make me feel scared. In addition, it was not just because of a new culture but all those things put together. 

             When the initial shock passed I started see things differently. I think that when I felt better I really started to live here. One of my shock was the food. The food in New Orleans is very different compared to Brazil's. When I was in Brazil I used to eat rice, beans, many kinds of salads, fruits and some meat. I was very healthy. The university cafeteria does not have many kinds of healthy food and all those things are so spicy. In addition, some food is made with sugar such as beans and some meats. It is very strange because in Brazil we put salt in those foods.  Even though I have adapted I do not like the food here. I prefer brazilian food and I miss it.  Another different thing compared to Brazil are the supermarkets. In Brazil you can find many kinds of fresh food, such as fruits, cheese, vegetables, meat, and  bread. It is very common and you can buy those things in bulk and it is very cheap. However, all supermarkets have bakery and you can buy fresh breads, cakes, pastries, and snacks.

            On the other hand, the music in New Orleans is amazing. The most common kind of music is jazz.  I had never listened this music before and I really love it. New Orleans has many bars that play jazz live and sometimes it is played in the street. Some of them have free admission. Furthermore, this city has many jazz concerts too. This culture of music is very strong. When I was in Brazil I used to listen to rock music, but now I listen many kinds of music.

            New Orleans has many beautiful places to visit. For example, City Park, Audubon park,  Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France, French Quarter, St. Louis park and others. All those places are in perfect state and have culture from different parts of world. Although this city was hit by hurricane Katrina, it is so beautiful and attractive. Another good thing is the public transportation. It is better than Brazil's. The vehicles are in perfect state, they arrived on time and they are cheaper.

            In conclusion, it has been a good experience. I can tell that experience has changed me in a good way. I opened my mind for the new and I learn something new every day.

Renata Cardoso

02/04/2014