Submitted by Ben Sekowski on the 2024 Winter PLSC/LARC program in Brazil…
In the second week of our study abroad in Brazil, we spent our time exploring the amazing parts of Rio. In the mornings we could go to an outdoor gym on the beach, which was cool to see the townspeople share the equipment and help each other workout. Working out with strangers made me realize that there is a big sense of community in Rio and Brazil.
Usually we would have class around 11 am and then go on a trip or a watercolor painting lesson. The trips included hiking sugarloaf mountain, seeing the Metropolitan Cathedral, and some gardens. There were some breathtaking views and they were worth the long hikes and Ubers. During these trips we had to do some sketching assignments and each time I really started to improve in my art skills. Having to draw different scenes and items made me look into the views in more detail, which made me appreciate what I saw even more. (Submitted on January 20, 2024)