Unlockers in America Workshop

We wanted to open a window into the diverse cultural landscapes and personal growth that come with international travel. So, w if we invite our students to share a bit of their experiences abroad? These narratives provide insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating life in a foreign country, offering inspiration to fellow students considering traveling or living in the USA.

Three participants (Alexandre, Edivaldo, and Michael) share their personal experiences regarding the United States. The meeting, moderated by teacher JR, focuses on how different individuals perceive America based on their unique backgrounds, whether as tourists or during extended stays.

What are the themes and highlights from the discussion?

• Diverse Perspectives on America: The presenters shared experiences ranging from living in the U.S. as high school exchange students to working in specialized fields like aircraft maintenance.

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• Cultural Observations:
  • Participants noted a cultural "distance" or privacy in the U.S., contrasting it with the more communal and interactive social nature often found in Brazil.
  • The group discussed the prevalence of car-centric infrastructure, noting that walking in many U.S. cities is uncommon or difficult compared to Brazilian urban areas.
  • Observations were made regarding the U.S. school system, specifically the emphasis on balancing academic performance with competitive sports.

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• Logistics and Life Experiences:
  • Ale shared his experience living in Oregon during a high school exchange program, highlighting the lottery-like nature of host family placement.
  • Michael detailed his work as an aircraft mechanic, including experiences in the Arizona desert.
  • Edivaldo described his experience flying several times to the US, before his work-exchange to the country.
  • The group touched upon the cost of food, observing that unhealthy or processed food options are often more affordable than healthy alternatives like salads.

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• Language Learning and Personal Growth: The session served as a platform for the participants to practice English in a public forum. JR praised the participants for their progress, noting that their ability to explain complex professional topics demonstrates significant improvement in their communication skills.

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