University of Florida from August 2011 to December 2011

Being part of the history of the exchange program provided by CAPES/FIPSE was one of the most challenging, yet best experience in my life so far. I must admit that when I left Brazil, knowing that I would spend a long time away from my family and my friends, I felt scared. But when I arrived in the land of “Uncle Sam”, I started to enjoy every single moment of it and I thank God I had such a blessed experience. I studied at the University of Florida and met amazing people from different part of the world. I became part of a wonderful Colombian family, learned about several cultures and tried delicious foods. I also had the opportunity to improve my English and learn some Spanish (thanks to my host-family). I participate in lectures, courses and a field-day at school. I learned new practices and methodologies in the Range Cattle Research & Education Center in Ona and in the Forage Laboratory at UF.  After classes were over, I traveled to different places (like NYC, Washington DC, among others) and now, near the end of all activities, I have acquired new perspectives on how to grow personally and professionally. I am so grateful to God and all the friends and relatives who supported me during my journey. I will miss the “Orange and Blue” life style, and I know it will be hard to say goodbye to the “Swamp”. I just have to tell everyone to believe and always continue walking; never give up on your dreams because mine came true!!! GO GATORS =)