When I finished my Leaving Cert, I wasn’t sure of much, only that my heart was set on science. I visited UCD a couple of times and, although some parts are not aesthetically pleasing, the warm reception, vast diversity and promises of a multi-million euro development for science and a new student centre made it an easy choice.

I found my strengths through a “no preference” option in my first year and eventually chose chemistry. Over the semesters, the work got tougher, the hours longer and the rewards less frequent. But thanks to UCD’s exceptional chemistry department, you are allowed a certain amount of responsibility and freedom, while still having the support of the staff.

So with summer looming, I came across IAESTE, or the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience.

The IAESTE internship allows undergraduates from every country to apply for a traineeship in the industry or universities in locations around the world. Sure, it was a grueling application process, and, after a disastrous interview, I thought my chance was surely squandered. But I got in.

University

My university was in the city of Viçosa which is a few hours by bus from Rio de Janeiro. Viçosa itself is a beautiful little city, a mix between the energy and student life of Galway and the traditional ways of the Minas state. It wasn’t hard to be swept up by the beauty and peacefulness of the area and the warm tactile ways of the Brazilian people.

The campus of Universidade Federal de Vicosa (UFV) is possibly the most graceful and magnificent I have ever seen. It’s like a dream to wander along the lake’s edge every morning and cross the green by the enormous palm trees. The campus was originally a farm and forest, and UFV still retains so much of the charm and local beauty while competing alongside the best for academia and technology. UFV is one of the most prestigious universities for agriculture and science and I can’t help but feel, given the chance, it would have a great kinship with Ireland and its agriculture technologies.

What was involved

I worked across both the department of chemistry and the department of agriculture during my internship.

As part of my project, I worked to investigate the solubility and herbicidal properties of a natural polymer, chitosan, on various farmed crops in the region, such as lettuce, tomato and cucumber. Brazil’s economy is evolving rapidly, particularly in fields like science, so I knew that an internship from the Universidade Federal de Vicosa would offer me invaluable knowledge and internationally-recognised experience that will surely benefit my future career.

Since UFV is a Federal University, it is free admission for students and most amenities are heavily subsidised by the government. This was great for poor students like me, as I could eat a great dinner of local foods for as little as 2$R per day (75c). The only condition is that you don’t mind beans and rice with everything and the buzz of almost 500 wasps while you eat.

I travelled to the city of Belo Horizonte only to find that I was indeed the only “white cailín” in the city. A regular day consisted of staring, pointing and the occasional picture of my fair skin (they aren’t so subtle with the camera flash).

I got to celebrate my birthday a few weeks ago with fellow interns and friends – it was a true Brazilian experience. It was easily the best birthday yet, due to its simplistic nature. There were no expectations of nightclubs, overdressing or presents and I was thrilled to be free of my painful stilettos for once.

The dishes and cakes were all homemade and ranged from barbecued beef and pork to roasted vegetable dishes and “pão de queijo”. The whole event was free from contrived celebration and more focused on a collaborative effort of enjoyment and relaxation. At the end of the night, some Brazilian friends walked me home. This is an important custom in Brazil – under no circumstances will they allow you to walk home alone. Even if it means walking 30 minutes in the wrong direction, the gentlemen of Brazil will see you home safe.

It’s vital to mention the World Cup of course. The Brazilians take such pride in their beloved sport, and you couldn’t move in the city for yellow and green decorations. I’ll admit that I’m not an avid sports fan, but it was hard not to be wrapped up in the excitement and celebrations. For each of Brazil’s games, I was told that nobody will work those days as it’s much more important to see the football.

Living in Brazil has had a profound effect on me already. I was certainly unprepared for the relaxed Brazilian attitude and their enthusiasm for life. Brazil is everything the cliche hints at – music and dancing on random street corners, football- and food-dominated conversations and an old-fashioned sense of family and responsibility.

I welcomed the opportunity to give the Irish a true sense of Brazil. The picture of Brazil for the World Cup overshadowed the under-rated treasures of this place.

I hope that someday, everyone gets the chance to experience the hidden culinary gems and the charming hospitality that Brazil has to offer.