I started orientation today. I feel very orientated and I'm very excited not only about the content of our program, but also about the philosophy and methodology behind SIT. Our director is an awesome physician/psychiatrist/anthropologist/health activist. Our program it definitely going to be very busy, with lots of excursions and outings.
I've had a bit of culture shock because I went from the city center during Carnaval, which was full of music and dancing and constant stimulation, to a very nice house in the suburbs by the airport. It's kind of like a retreat. We even have a swimming pool!
But during Carnaval we were on our own schedules with lots of different people, but here we really just sit around and get oriented- except we don't really know where we are in the city.
But tomorrow in addition to my first official Portuguese class we have an afro-Brazilian dance class! I am so incredibly excited, especially because I think that I will focus my independent research on the role of dance in empowerment. Damiana, our director, was really excited about the topic and supportive.
Also, I have been eating the most delicious food here, which is a huge step up from my ramen diet at the hostel. There are so many delicious vegetables, fruits and juices. Below is a photo of the spread. Bring on the delicious Brazilian food!!!
Also, here is a link to a picasa album with the few photos I took of Carnaval
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| Brazil 2011 |
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