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Exchange programs allow students to study in other countries, enhancing their language skills and broadening their knowledge. This cultural experience enriches learning and fosters independence. Overall, studying abroad is a valuable opportunity for personal and academic growth, preparing students for a globalized world.

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Over the course of human history, the English language has become the official spoken language in several countries around the world. This happens due to various reasons, such as the British Empire's colonization in the span of 400 years in countless countries, Industrial Revolutions, relations with other languages, United States' influence in culture, printing press and many more.

Some of these countries which has the English being their first language, like for instance: United States, Australia, Canada, England, Scotland, Ireland and New Zealand.

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English language teaching refers to methods that involve language practice, in which English is spoken daily as a first language around language courses, exchanges and study in bilingual schools. Teaching also seeks to accelerate familiarity and dissemination of English in a practical and natural way within the group, promoting fluency and cultural understanding.

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Positive points

Personal growth and autonomy: One of the greatest benefits of studying abroad is the personal growth that leaving one's comfort zone provides. According to the director of the Virginia Center School, Ana Virginia Kesselring, autonomy is the main benefit that students will have. “Studying abroad will certainly make students more active, more knowledgeable and more knowledgeable. This is the greatest benefit they will have for their education,” she says.

Studying at the best universities in the world: According to the main international university ranking, the Times Higher Education (THE), published in London, 44 of the 100 best universities in the world are in the United States. Another 31 are in Europe. Brazil has only one university in the ranking, USP.

Negative points

Costs of studying abroad: The costs of studying abroad are higher than what we are used to paying at private universities in Brazil. A year of Business Administration at Harvard, for example, costs between R$115,000 and R$125,000/year. The same course at Fundação Getúlio Vargas, one of the most renowned in Brazil in this area, costs R$32,000/year.

Difficulties in cultural adaptation: Cultural adaptation in another country can represent many challenges. For Tábata do Amaral, an undergraduate student at Harvard, it was very difficult to get used to the food there. “I went almost two weeks without drinking the water here, because I didn't like it. I also can't stand the cold,” she says. Food, habits of the new culture, climate and missing family and friends are points that must be taken into account.