Why is the SUSI Program Such a Transformative Experience?

By Verissimo Ramos dos Santos, Brazil

Participating in the SUSI for Scholars program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, has been a life-changing experience. I have the unique opportunity to connect with an international network of academics, experience enriching cultural exchanges, and immerse myself deeply in American culture. I want to share five transformative aspects of this journey:

1. The Power of Interdisciplinary Reflections: Dialogue Among Professors from 17 Countries
One of the benefits of the SUSI program was the opportunity to engage in dialogue with professors from 17 different countries and various fields such as economics, finance, business administration, and sustainability. This diversity of thought provided collective reflections that broadened my perspective on the world and education. Discussions with professionals from different backgrounds offer a more holistic view of problems, as they can be seen from other perspectives. Being exposed to debates with colleagues with vast experience and knowledge, bringing in contexts and realities as difficult or even more challenging than the one I experienced, taught me to listen more attentively and empathetically, being more open to considering and even adopting new ways of acting.

2. Sharing Dilemmas and Reflecting on Them
During the program, we had the opportunity to share collective dilemmas and reflect on them in a safe and comfortable environment. Despite cultural differences, many of the challenges we face are surprisingly similar: inequality, lack of technology, lack of investment, poor education, poverty, and historical legacies such as colonialism and clientelism that still affect the democracy of countries. It also brought us a sense of community, empathy, and unity. Discussing these issues with people from different countries revealed the common roots of many problems and highlighted the need for collaborative approaches and global solutions.

3. Learning from Giants: Conceptual and Methodological Aspects
Having contact with prestigious research and educational institutions in Boston was an invaluable privilege. Visits to universities like Harvard, MIT, and other American institutions provided valuable insights into the technological and academic advances that shape the future. Additionally, as participants, we experienced learning through highly engaging strategies and teaching methods, such as the case study method at Harvard that explored Kenya’s development and a simulation game that addressed the “Tragedy of the Commons,” providing a rich reflective process in the class. This direct exposure to cutting-edge educational environments motivated me to become an even more innovative teacher in the classroom.

4. Immersion in American and World Culture through People
The immersion in American culture is deep and multifaceted. From experiencing daily life in a vibrant city like Boston, with a fun first day doing a “Duck Tour,” visiting museums, to participating in community volunteering at Arlington Church, each experience contributed to a richer understanding of American society (and also, the Foo Fighters concert was amazing!). Additionally, the exchange with professors all over the globe allowed for an immersion in the cultures of those nations, further enriching the experience. Interacting with locals, enjoying the excellent local cuisine (I need the clam chowder recipe), and even simple walks through the historic streets of Boston all created a mosaic of learning and personal growth.

5. A Change in Perspective About Myself
As a Brazilian, the excitement of participating in such a prestigious program as SUSI was immense. Each moment reminds me of the importance of representing my country and culture. This experience reinforced my pride in being from the Northeast of Brazil and my responsibility to share the knowledge I gained with my community upon my return. I also feel more prepared to face future challenges, more motivated to be a better teacher, and with a broader worldview. I reflected a lot on being a role model so that my students in the Baixada Maranhense in Brazil can dream as well. Showing them that it is possible to aim high and that they can also seek similar opportunities was one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.

The SUSI for Scholars program was not just an academic program but a transformative journey that enriched my personal and professional life in unimaginable ways. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity! My gratitude to the organizers, professors, collaborators, and participants.