January 23, 2019
Boa Tarde!
Today was our final day of classes at ESALQ. In the morning we worked closely with Dr. Shirota to pin down questions to ask the other professors during our panel. The group worked diligently to come up with a stimulating list of questions for our panel, and to review material for the exam that followed the panel.
The panel of professors had great insight on all of our questions. There was hearty debate about how to properly protect the rainforest while also continuing to develop Brazil. Professors Pedro and Caron helped to clarify some of the intricacies of Brazilian culture, and to explain how they came about. All the professors left us with one piece of advice they thought we should take back with us to the United States. Professor Fernando’s advice hit home the most for me, he asked that we remember that we are not just Americans, but global citizens as well. He posed the question “should we strive to be the best in the world, or the best for the world?”
After we presented plaques of appreciation to our dedicated professors we proceeded to take the exam. Each professor gave us one extended response question concerning their area of expertise. The questions were very thought provoking, and required a good deal of thought.
To unwind after our exam many of us took to the pool at Antonio’s. The water was warm, and many jealous snapchats were received from back home. Dinner was filled with laughter as we enjoyed KFC at the local mall. To wrap up our days we all prepared for our long trip, we leave at 4 o’clock tomorrow! The group is very excited to get to see new areas of Brazil, and sad at the same time to leave the wonderful city of Piracicaba.
Thank you to all the professors who dedicated their time and knowledge!
– Johnny Cottingim