PUCRS welcomes international students for academic mobility period 

The experience of living in another country is a unique moment in the life of those who seek opportunities to learn about new cultures and languages, in addition to developing personal and professional aspects. In this semester of 2025/1, 16 students chose PUCRS for their academic mobility period. The presence of foreign students represents the University's commitment to promoting the internationalization of the Campus and strengthening institutional partnerships. 

The new students come from seven countries: Colombia, the United States, Ecuador, France, Mexico, Sweden, England and Italy. In addition to them, three other students have renewed their mobility period at the University.  

All seven PUCRS Schools have international students, either through courses taught in Portuguese or in courses offered in English, which are in high demand. 

Sara Cristina Alvarez, originally from Ecuador and a Physiotherapy student at School of Health and Life Sciences, says that he chose Brazil because of the learning possibilities at the University.  
 
“I chose it because I learned Portuguese at school, and it’s a country with a very interesting culture. I like how friendly the people are, and I love the language. I’m also seeing things I’d never seen before at university, like new learning opportunities and different ways to develop a career.”, says Sara.  

For Laura Estefania Leal, from Colombia, a Design student at School of Communication, Arts and Design – Famecos, your choice is related to your interest in your roots and in Latin America: 

“I really like the concept of being Latino. To be able to feel all of this, we have to take ownership of our entire culture, and with Brazil, we have this language barrier. So, I thought it would be cool to come and learn about the culture, the language, the music and the traditions. I’m also learning that the foreigner’s view is very much associated with Rio de Janeiro. I also think it’s really cool that there’s a very different social system from Colombia and some really interesting social work.”  

To help those who are starting their journey in another country, one of the initiatives promoted by PUCRS is the University Friend Program, organized by Academic Mobility, sector of Office of International Cooperation, with the support of the Pro-Rectory of Undergraduate Studies and Continuing Education (Prograd) through the Psychosocial Care Center (CAP).  

This is an opportunity for those seeking to get closer to foreign students, contributing to the processes of sociocultural adaptation and academic integration.  

Isabella Basso, English Literature student at School of Humanities, is one of the volunteers at Amigo Universitário and says that It is an opportunity not only to practice a new language, but also to help with basic everyday things, which can be challenging for those who are new to the country, as well as being a chance to make new friends..  

“I am also very interested in doing academic mobility at the University, but I have already been an exchange student. I have lived abroad and I understand how having this connection, having someone who is willing to help you in those first moments in a new place is very important.”, complete. 

João Fett, coordinator of the International Cooperation Office, states that The presence of students is a joy that fills the Campus with more life.

“The international students who chose PUCRS to undertake their academic mobility period represent our strong commitment to internationalization. Providing them with the best possible PUCRS experience is our mission. With them, the University gains the opportunity for an international experience at home and recognition beyond the Campus, as each of them happily shares what they are experiencing here with us.”He says.