April 11, 2014
Nelson Institute student Paul Davidson is studying abroad in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for the spring 2014 semester at Pontifical Catholic University (PUC-Rio). He has been documenting his experience on a blog for UW-Madison’s International Academic Programs Office and on the photo-sharing social network Instagram.
Asked what inspired his study abroad, he writes:
Brazil, and Rio de Janeiro specifically, are changing rapidly due to their hosting the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games. It is so exciting to be living in a country experiencing such change, but there are also challenges the city is facing with rapid growth. Some of these issues include the environmental impacts.
While in Rio, I am hoping to explore its natural wonders, attend a World Cup match, and travel through other parts of the country.
Since arriving in January, some highlights include simple things such as hanging out at the beach, which is only a five-minute walk from my homestay; learning a lot of Portuguese; visiting farmers’ markets; and hiking Dedo de Deus (God's Finger) in Teresópolis. The view was amazing and along the way I saw a lot of wildlife and plant life that is common in Brazil.
It has been an incredible adventure so far and I can't wait to keep exploring and learning for the rest of the semester.
Below, enjoy a selection of photos from Davidson's adventures.
Slide show photos and captions courtesy Paul Davidson.