If you plan to continue your education in Brasil you probably know more than I do about what you need to do. Odds are you have a career in mind, you know basically what areas you need to study, which vestibular exams you will need to take and where you’ll need to take them.

If you are considering continuing your studies outside of Brasil however, you’re going to need some help. That’s what I’m here for. I’m your college counselor.

In general, about one Pan American School senior in three applies to a college or university outside Brasil. Most of these students are Brazilians. Although Pan American School graduates have attended schools in Canada, Europe and Australia, the majority of applications are sent to U.S. schools.

For an American student graduating here, the choice of a U.S. school is natural. For a Brazilian, leaving your home and family to live on another continent is a life changing decision. You should first consider the advantages of studying abroad. While there are an infinite number of reasons to do so, they tend to fall in three categories:

1) Some careers require a global perspective, such as international law or international business. Whether you work in Brasil or anywhere else in the world, a degree abroad adds invaluable dimension to your professional life.

2) Some schools are exceptionally strong in certain areas. The University of Chicago for example is world renown for its programs in economics and physics. For performing arts, Julliard immediately comes to mind.

3) Studying abroad is also a tremendous opportunity for personal growth. If you’ve ever had the feeling of not knowing who you are or what you want to do with your life, living abroad and exploring the world may the best way of discovering yourself.

There are however, disadvantages. It is likely to be expensive. Resources for financial aid are limited and highly competitive. Some disciplines, such as medicine and law, do not translate well internationally. Lastly, even if you are accepted into a school abroad, the process of securing a visa can be slow and frustrating.

If studying abroad sounds interesting to you, come by and see me. Soon. We have a lot of work to do. You can also click on the link below for more information.

Good luck. We’re all counting on you.

Doug Smith
d.smith@escolapanamericana.com