My Brazilian Heritage

By Ana Julia Facco

From Brazil to the U.S.
When I was 20, I moved from Brazil to the United States to finish my college degree. Moving to an entirely new place with a different language and culture is one of the scariest things I’ve ever experienced.
In the beginning, I would get frustrated when people noticed my accent because I felt like I would never find my own community. Now, it’s one of my favorite topics because it helps me connect with others while easing my homesickness. 

Brazil’s Beauty 
It’s hard not to miss Brazil because of everything it has to offer. I often think about the delicious food and drinks, the beautiful landscapes, the bright smiles, the kind interactions and the appreciation for life. I’ve experienced the different cultures and backgrounds within my home country and explored the various traditions and cultures in a broader context.
I am very lucky to have Brazilian friends here in Kent who are experiencing the same mixed emotions of moving to the Northern Hemisphere. We stay connected to our culture by speaking Portuguese and cooking our favorite meals. When the longing for home becomes overwhelming, speaking the complex beauty of the Portuguese language soothes me, word for word.
My favorite characteristic of my culture is our compassion for others. At home, everyone wants to help their peers succeed. There’s always time to stop and lend a helping hand to someone in need. My culture’s emphasis on compassion has positively impacted my moral values and mindset, even when I am overseas. 
Listening to Brazilian music always brings a smile to my face. Having a positive mindset is one lesson from home that I carry wholeheartedly. Staying positive has helped me navigate life independently, teaching me to celebrate every achievement and enjoy each moment.
Studying abroad has strengthened my connection to my Brazilian heritage, which I consider the most beautiful part of myself. Being away from home made me realize just how much pride I take in carrying Brazil within me.