PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

Doing Business in Emerging Markets:
Brazil Immersion

in partnership with Georgia State University

The latest edition of the Doing Business in Emerging Markets program, developed in collaboration with Georgia State University, brought together 19 international students for a weeklong deep dive into Brazil’s dynamic business landscape. Led by Professor Salomão de Farias, this learning experience was held in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, blending academics with cultural exploration.

In this article we delve into this incredible international learning experience, with a testimonial from Makayla Laing, one of the participating students!

INTRO:

Throughout their week in Brazil, students visited prominent companies such as Natura, Leroy Merlin, Globo, Ambev, and Alvarez & Marsal, gaining valuable insights into the complexities and opportunities of operating in emerging markets.

The program also featured a real-world business challenge in partnership with MOVIN, a B-Certified sustainable fashion company. Participants competed in a case competition focused on developing supply chain traceability strategies — encouraging innovative thinking and sustainable business practices within the fashion industry.

student perspective:

Makayla Laing,
Computer Information Systems student
at Georgia State University

"I’ve always dreamed of studying abroad. There’s just something about the idea of blending travel and education that sounded so exciting to me. When the opportunity to visit Brazil came up, I jumped on it. I had never done an educational trip internationally before, but I had lived in Guyana when I was younger, over 15 years ago now though. So, returning to South America, this time with a more seasoned perspective, felt like a full-circle moment.

Before the trip, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought I’d be hit with a major wave of culture shock, but that wasn’t the case. I didn’t do a deep dive of research either. I wanted to experience Brazil with fresh eyes. I mean, of course I did the basics (safety tips, currency exchange, etc.), and I tried to practice Portuguese, but let’s just say the app I used didn’t exactly make me fluent.

Being in Brazil was... incredible. It was such a breath of fresh air literally and emotionally. Compared to the nonstop hustle of the U.S., it felt freeing. The people were warm, the culture was vibrant, and the entire trip was full of moments that made me pause and really take it all in.

We visited some amazing companies like Natura, Leroy Merlin, and Globo. Getting a behind the scenes look at international business was eye-opening. It reminded me that business, at its core, operates in similar ways all around the world, but the heart behind it can look very different. Natura particularly stood out to me. Their connection to the community and immersive, people-centered approach was beautiful to witness. São Paulo had major New York energy fast-paced, towering buildings, always moving, while Rio brought the heat (literally and figuratively) with its laid-back, sun-soaked vibes.

This whole experience pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. Traveling across the world to a new country, meeting new people, learning from businesses and students, it really expanded my perspective.

In the U.S., things can feel very individualistic, so it was refreshing to see how deeply rooted community and connection are in Brazilian culture. It made me appreciate both my life at home and the beauty of stepping into someone else’s world, even if just for a short while.

The part that will stay with me forever? Visiting the favela. I had heard the statistics, the stereotypes, but nothing compares to seeing it for yourself. Being around the kids there unlocked a childlike wonder in me that I hadn’t felt in so long. These were kids with what many would call “so little,” yet they had so much joy, resilience, heart. It was humbling and inspiring all at once. That experience reminded me of the power of community and perseverance, and it made me want to give back in bigger ways as I grow both personally and professionally.

Brazil changed me in all the best ways. And if you ever get the chance, please go. You’ll come back with more than memories, you’ll come back with a whole new lens!"

Beyond business insights, the program became a transformative personal journey for students, who highlighted how meaningful it was to immerse themselves in Brazilian culture — from savoring traditional foods and enjoying stunning landscapes, to learning how locals live and engaging with social impact initiatives.

A recurring theme in student testimonials was the power of cultural exchange. Working closely with local students from diverse backgrounds sparked new perspectives and fostered personal growth. In their post-program feedback, many cited the friendships formed, the openness of local communities, and the chance to share and compare life experiences as among the most rewarding aspects of their journey.

This program went far beyond academic learning. It built bridges between cultures, nurtured critical thinking and global awareness, and created memories that will stay with students for life.

Our special thank you to Georgia State University and the leadership of Professor Salomão de Farias for making this journey possible. Your commitment to creating impactful global education experiences continues to shape future leaders across borders. Thanks for trusting our work!

Our passion for the academic ﬁeld has given us the privilege of actively collaborating with more than 90 universities, offering professional and extracurricular experience journeys directly impacting more than 5000 students.

Explore other stories in our blog, "Beyond Expectations"

Written by:

Fernando Oliveira

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

Doing Business in Emerging Markets: Brazil Immersion

in partnership with Georgia State University

INTRO:

student perspective:

Makayla Laing, Computer Information Systems student at Georgia State University

Being in Brazil was... incredible. It was such a breath of fresh air literally and emotionally. Compared to the nonstop hustle of the U.S., it felt freeing. The people were warm, the culture was vibrant, and the entire trip was full of moments that made me pause and really take it all in.

This whole experience pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. Traveling across the world to a new country, meeting new people, learning from businesses and students, it really expanded my perspective.

In the U.S., things can feel very individualistic, so it was refreshing to see how deeply rooted community and connection are in Brazilian culture. It made me appreciate both my life at home and the beauty of stepping into someone else’s world, even if just for a short while.

Brazil changed me in all the best ways. And if you ever get the chance, please go. You’ll come back with more than memories, you’ll come back with a whole new lens!"

Our passion for the academic ﬁeld has given us the privilege of actively collaborating with more than 90 universities, offering professional and extracurricular experience journeys directly impacting more than 5000 students.

Explore other stories in our blog, "Beyond Expectations"

Written by:

Fernando Oliveira

to go beyond

Navigate here:

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Doing Business in Emerging Markets:
Brazil Immersion

Makayla Laing,
Computer Information Systems student
at Georgia State University