From the jungles of academia and the winding river of variable unit courses, I return breifly to make a virtual Digaria appearance! I really regret not visiting more, but the classes I'm taking are so engaging and demanding there's barely time to blink...and so a requisite update:

I'm on track to study in Brazil in 2007! I'm currently applying to different study programs to secure a space as a student in Rio de Janeiro. In fact, if any who read this have worked with any recommended exchange programs, please let me know, as I'm always open to ones I may not have explored. I'm currently taking a very pertinent sociology class to my exchange in Rio called Women and Development in the Third World. It has already been absolutely compelling, focusing on the definitions and connotations of "development", women's labor experiences as a result of globalization, and so forth. I look forward to applying new analytical skills to future encounters with women laborers in Brazil, as well as those of the general populace.

Another development is my interest in getting a masters degree in Public or Foreign policy. the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard and The Fletcher School of Foreign Service at TUFTS University are particularly compelling. I had a chance to visit both campuses on a trip back East over Christmas, and after learning about the programs and seeing where my humanitarian interests may lead me I anticipate my year in Brazil all the more.

But now it's time for me to go write a paper for that class I was just raving about. I would like to add, however, if there are any former Ambassadorial Scholars who have studied in Brazil, or any Brazilian Rotarians (especially from Rio de Janeiro or Salvador, equal love to all states, of course!), would you be so kind as to contact me about your past experiences as a student or with them? I still have yet to learn morew details about my host club in Rio, but if any members are on Digaria and are reading, feel free to contact me. I have questions!:) My email is: ncp@umail.ucsb.edu

Obrigada e hate logo, Nicole Pefley