I tried to find a way to organize this entry, but every organizational scheme seemed either forced or excessively exclusive. Therefore, I will talk about some important categories without providing an overall theme.
Career
As I mentioned in the last post, I am looking for an internship in Sao Paulo. Despite problems with my availability and Portuguese skills, I think there is a decent chance that I will fin an internship for this summer.
My first interview is next Thursday with the consulting company, Innovation SEED. This company helps companies to better profit from their innovation efforts. I am most optimistic that my internship will be with this company. However, I am continuing to seek out new companies through FGV’s career office and other contacts- surprisingly some of the companies that rejected me are willing to forward my resume. Hopefully I can find something, but if not, I will probably complete an intensive language program during the summer.
Academics
I recently received my grades for the first module. They were disappointingly low. Although the classes were intellectually satisfying, some of the grading methods seemed arbitrary and excessively subjective. I also felt that some of the final exams were unrepresentative of the class as a whole.
Currently, I am taking classes in sustainability, international SCM, Internet business, and negotiation as part of the second module. Now that I have experience with FGV’s classes, I am optimistic that my grades will turn out better. I am also happy that my academic schedule provides me with a four-day weekend.
As a side note, I am reading some classic American literature to balance out my business classes. I think I am reading more here in Brazil than any time in the states. Now I am reading Moby Dick, but I plan to move on to some Russian literature next.
Portuguese Language
My Portuguese is improving, but not as fast as I would like it to. Unsurprisingly, I am developing skills in guessing meaning based on context and tone.
Night Life
I have not participated in any new clubs since my last post. However, I am planning to go to a funky club with my Jiu-Jitsu professor in one week. Some Brazilians describe funk music as the “music of crime” and funk clubs as a “hip-hop videos”. Therefore, I am sure that my experience will be interesting.
Giocanda, a famous FGV party, is another party I plan to attend. This year, the party takes place at a car-racing track and features burlesque dancers, unlimited alcohol, and ice cream. The absurdity of this party is wonderful. I cannot believe that world-renowned school like FGV subsidizes it.
Next Post
Someone form my church in Brazil suggested that I talk about Brazilian perceptions of America, so that is what I will do next post. This next post will be more organized.
